In a significant operation aimed at combating banditry, police personnel have rescued 35 kidnapped victims across Niger State. The rescue operations followed reports of suspected bandits relocating from Birnin-Gwari forest due to intensive security clearance efforts.
According to a press release signed by the Niger State Public Relations Officer, SP W. A. Abiodun, between July 3rd and 5th, police tactical teams intercepted a vehicle carrying 24 victims, including women and children, who had been abducted over a year ago from various locations such as Pandogari, Madaka, Allawa, Sarkin-Pawa, and even Taraba State. The vehicle, driven by Yusuf Abdullahi from Birnin-Gwari, was en route to Yauri in Kebbi State, where the victims were reportedly being handed over to other members of the criminal group. During the interception on the Madaka-Makujeri road, the victims were freed, and Abdullahi was arrested.
Following the initial rescue, the victims were taken to a medical facility for immediate attention before being reunited with their families. Authorities have launched an investigation with the aim of rescuing additional victims still held captive by the hoodlums.
In a separate incident on July 4th, at approximately 4:30 PM, another group comprising five women and six children was intercepted in Agwara while attempting to cross a river to reach Yauri, Kebbi State. The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Agwara took custody of the victims, and law enforcement recovered two magazines along with sixty rounds of live ammunition. The group was subsequently transferred to the State Police Headquarters in Minna for further investigation.
Commissioner of Police for Niger State, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, commended the efforts of the joint security teams responsible for the successful rescue operations. He urged the public to continue providing actionable information to support ongoing efforts in rescuing other victims and combating banditry in the region.
The fight against kidnapping and banditry remains a top priority for security agencies in Niger State, as they work diligently to restore safety and security for all citizens.
