Police operatives in Katsina State have rescued 28 people from suspected kidnappers and foiled two separate bandit attacks in Sabuwa Local Government Area.
The operations were disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Command’s spokesperson, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, who said they were carried out under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Shehu, as part of an intensified crackdown on criminal elements in the state.
The first rescue took place on Monday, 29 July, at about 9:24 a.m., after armed bandits ambushed commuters along the Sabuwa-Kaya road near Inno Junction, abducting 14 persons.
A tactical response team led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) engaged the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to flee and enabling the safe recovery of all abductees.
Unfortunately, a 27-year-old man identified as Abba from Funtua was killed by the fleeing bandits during the operation.
A second incident occurred late on Sunday, 28 July, at around 11:27 p.m., when bandits invaded Zagaizagi village in the same LGA and abducted several residents.
Police again responded swiftly, rescuing 14 additional victims and recovering two rustled cattle. However, two villagers were reported killed during the attack.
DSP Aliyu said efforts are ongoing to track down the suspects involved in both incidents.
Commending the bravery and swift response of his officers, CP Shehu urged residents to continue cooperating with the police by providing timely and credible information.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding communities across the state.
