Security forces overpower bandits, rescue 32 kidnap victims in Sokoto
Operatives from the Sokoto State Police Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, successfully rescued 32 individuals kidnapped in Maikujera Village, located in the Rabah Local Government Area.
A statement released by the police’s Public Relations Officer, Ahmad Rufa’i, on Monday outlined that the operation was initiated following a distress call regarding heavily armed bandits who were reportedly moving livestock and hostages.
The police tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violent Crime Reaction Unit, quickly mobilized. They coordinated with the Army’s Forward Operating Base to block key escape routes for the bandits.
According to the statement, the operation involved a fierce gun battle between security forces and the bandits. The criminals, outmatched by the firepower of the security forces, abandoned their hostages and the stolen livestock, fleeing into nearby forests.
A subsequent search effort led to the safe recovery of the 32 victims. This group included six adult males and 26 females, the majority of whom were children.
The rescued individuals have been evacuated to safety and are currently receiving medical and psychological support in preparation for their reunification with family members. Tragically, the statement also confirmed that four individuals had been killed prior to the arrival of security personnel.
