Sokoto: Police rescue five kidnap victims after gun battle with bandits
Sokoto Police Rescue Five Kidnapped Victims Following Bandit Attack
SOKOTO, Nigeria – The Sokoto State Police Command, in partnership with military personnel, successfully rescued five individuals who were kidnapped during a bandit attack on Wednesday evening along the Rabbah–Maikujeru road.
Police spokesperson Ahmad Rufa’i announced the operation in a statement issued on Thursday. The kidnapping occurred around 8:45 p.m. when armed assailants ambushed a Canter truck transporting charcoal, abducting six people.
Upon receiving a distress call, a joint team of police tactical units and troops from the military’s Forward Operating Base was swiftly deployed to the scene. The security forces engaged in a prolonged gunfight with the attackers, compelling them to retreat into a nearby forest.
“The security operatives engaged the bandits in a fierce gun duel that lasted for a considerable period,” Rufa’i said. He confirmed that five of the six kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed during the operation, and the stolen vehicle was recovered.
“The rescued individuals have been reunited with their families, and the vehicle is currently in police custody pending further investigation,” he added.
Rufa’i reported that efforts are ongoing to locate the sixth victim, who reportedly escaped into the forest during the attack. Additionally, police divisions in surrounding areas have been placed on alert to prevent any potential assaults on nearby communities.
The Sokoto State Police Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and encouraged residents to provide timely and credible information to law enforcement agencies.
