By OLAIDE OYELUDE

The Katsina Command of the Nigeria Police on Thursday night lost two officers in a fierce encounter with bandits.

Operatives of the command also killed two bandits in the encounter which took place in a bush near Baure village, Safana Local Government Area of the state.

The operatives were also able to recover one AK 47 rifle and two unregistered motorcycles from the bandits.

The State Police Commissioner, Sanusi Buba confirmed the incident at a press conference in Katsina on Friday.

He gave the names of the deceased officers as ASP Yakubu Joshua attached to the 27 Police Mobile Force, Katsina and Sergeant Zaharadeen Yuguda attached to the Safana Division.

The Police Commissioner further explained the circumstances that led to the incident:

“On November 18, 2021, based on credible intelligence, Area Commander of Dutsin-Ma; ACP Aminu Umar, led a combined team of policemen and vigilante to bandits’ hideout at Baure village, Safana Local Government Area of Katsina State and engaged them in a fierce gun duel. The team succeeded in dislodging the bandits, killed two notorious members and recovered one AK 47 rifle with thirty-five rounds of 7.62 mm live ammunition of AK 47 rifle.

“Sadly, two gallant police officers, ASP Yakubu Joshua, attached to the 27, Police Mobile Force, Katsina; and Sgt Zaharadeen Yuguda attached to Safana Division paid the supreme price and died in the crossfire.”

The Police Commissioner urged residents of the state to always volunteer credible information on the activities of criminals to security agencies to make the state crime-free.

He added,” The Command assures members of the public that it remains resolute and committed in the on-going fight against recalcitrant bandits until they are arrested and dealt with in accordance with extant laws of the land.” (The PUNCH)

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