Operatives of the Katsina State Police Command have rescued nine kidnapped passengers after foiling an abduction operation by suspected bandits along the Katsina–Kankara highway.
The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, said the incident occurred on Friday afternoon when armed bandits blocked the road at Tashar Kanya village in Kankara Local Government Area and intercepted a commercial vehicle travelling from Dandume to Katsina.
According to police, the attackers abducted all 11 occupants of the vehicle before fleeing into nearby bushes.
Following a distress call, the Divisional Police Officer in Kankara mobilised a joint team of security operatives, including personnel from the Violent Crime Rescue Unit, to pursue the kidnappers.
The operatives engaged the suspects in a gun duel, forcing them to retreat and abandon several of their captives. A search operation conducted in the area led to the rescue of nine victims, all of whom were found unharmed.
Police said two persons, including the vehicle driver, Aliyu “Maitakabari,” and another victim, Buhari Kabir, are still missing.
The command added that search-and-rescue efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining victims and track down the fleeing suspects.
Commending the officers involved in the operation, Commissioner of Police Ali Fage praised their courage and professionalism, reaffirming the command’s commitment to tackling banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
He also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance public safety.
The incident occurred in Katsina State, where security forces continue efforts to curb bandit attacks and kidnappings.