Police rescue 32 kidnap victims, foil bandit operation in Sokoto
Security Forces Rescue 32 Kidnapped Victims in Sokoto State
SOKOTO, Nigeria — A coordinated security operation involving police tactical teams and the military led to the rescue of 32 individuals kidnapped by armed bandits in the Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State, the Nigeria Police Force announced.
According to a statement from the Sokoto State Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Ahmad Rufai, the operation occurred on Tuesday in Maikujera village, a remote area bordering Zamfara State. The operation was initiated after the Divisional Police Officer in Rabah received intelligence regarding a large group of armed bandits invading the community.
The attackers reportedly entered the village with stolen livestock and multiple abducted victims, firing indiscriminately at local residents.
In response, the Divisional Police Officer mobilized tactical units, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violent Crime Reaction Unit (VCRU), coordinating with the Nigerian Army’s Forward Operating Base to block potential escape routes.
The ensuing gun battle compelled the attackers to abandon their captives and livestock, fleeing into the surrounding forest. Police subsequently conducted a search of the area, successfully rescuing all 32 victims.
The rescued individuals include six adult males and 26 females, most of whom are children. They have been relocated to a secure location, where they are receiving medical and psychological support before being reunited with their families.
The police confirmed that four individuals were killed by the bandits during the initial attack prior to the arrival of security forces.
Commissioner of Police Hayatu Shaffa expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and reassured the community that those responsible would be brought to justice. He emphasized the command’s dedication to combating banditry and kidnapping in the state.
Shaffa urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.
