Crime

Katsina Police on Alert as Officer Vanishes With AK-47, Massive Manhunt Underway

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on November 27th, 2025.

The Katsina State Police Command has launched an intensive search operation after one of its officers reportedly disappeared with an AK-47 rifle assigned to him during duty hours. The alarming development has sparked heightened security concerns across the state, prompting the command to activate emergency protocols to track down the missing personnel and recover the weapon.

According to sources within the command, the officer, whose identity has not yet been released to the public, signed out the rifle from the armoury for routine deployment but failed to return at the end of his shift. Attempts to reach him proved unsuccessful, and preliminary checks revealed that he had not reported to any designated duty post.

Police authorities describe the situation as a “serious breach of service conduct” and fear the rifle could be used for criminal activities if not swiftly retrieved. The command has reportedly alerted all formations within and outside the state, circulating the officer’s details and the serial number of the missing firearm.

In a statement, the Katsina Police Command assured residents that every necessary measure is being taken to safeguard public safety. It emphasized that a full-scale investigation has begun to determine the circumstances leading to the officer’s disappearance and whether he acted alone or had potential collaborators.

Security analysts warn that incidents involving missing service rifles demand immediate attention, especially in regions grappling with banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes. A single assault weapon in the wrong hands, they warn, could escalate insecurity if not intercepted promptly.

Residents are urged to remain calm but vigilant and to report any suspicious movements or information that could aid the police operation. Meanwhile, the command has vowed to ensure accountability, stressing that no officer found complicit in negligence or wrongdoing will be spared.

As the manhunt continues, the incident has once again raised questions about internal security protocols and the need for stricter oversight within police formations.