The Nigeria Police Force has rescued 32 kidnapped victims after a coordinated security operation successfully foiled a major bandit attack in Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The rescue mission, carried out by police tactical teams alongside military personnel, followed credible intelligence about a large group of heavily armed bandits operating in Maikujera village, a community close to the Zamfara State border.
Intelligence Report Sparks Swift Security Response
According to the Sokoto State Police Command, security operatives received information that the bandits had invaded the village, abducted dozens of residents, rustled livestock, and were firing indiscriminately while attempting to escape.
Acting on the intelligence, the Divisional Police Officer in Rabah immediately deployed tactical units, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violent Crime Reaction Unit (VCRU). The operation was reinforced by personnel from the Nigerian Army’s Forward Operating Base (FOB), who worked together to seal off possible escape routes.
Heavy Exchange of Gunfire Forces Bandits to Flee
The combined security team intercepted the criminals, leading to a fierce gun battle in the area.
Unable to withstand the pressure from the security forces, the bandits abandoned both their captives and the livestock they had stolen before fleeing into the surrounding forest.
Security personnel immediately launched a search operation across nearby bushes and successfully rescued all 32 kidnapped victims.
Majority of Rescued Victims Are Women and Children
Authorities confirmed that the rescued victims include:
- 6 adult males
- 26 females, most of whom are children
The victims have been moved to a secure location where they are receiving medical attention, psychological care, and other necessary support before being reunited with their families.
Four Residents Killed Before Rescue Operation
Despite the successful rescue mission, the police disclosed that four people lost their lives during the initial attack before security operatives reached the community.
The tragic deaths highlight the growing security challenges facing rural communities affected by recurring bandit attacks in parts of northwestern Nigeria.
Police Vow to Intensify Crackdown on Banditry
The Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, Hayatu Shaffa, expressed condolences to the families of those killed during the attack.
He assured residents that efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing bandits and bring everyone involved to justice.
The commissioner also reaffirmed the command’s determination to sustain operations against kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes across the state.
Residents were urged to remain alert and promptly report any suspicious movements or criminal activities to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to improve safety in affected communities.
