The Katsina State Police Command thwarted two separate kidnap attempts in Jibia and Faskari Local Government Areas on Saturday, rescuing 20 victims in the process.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Abubakar Sadiq, disclosed that the first incident occurred on December 7, 2024, around 7:00 p.m. along the Katsina-Magamar Jibia road. Armed bandits, wielding AK-47 rifles, ambushed a vehicle in a bid to abduct its occupants.
“Upon receiving a tip-off, operatives from the Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters swiftly responded, engaging the attackers in a fierce gun battle,” Sadiq stated.
“The bandits fled with gunshot injuries, abandoning their mission. All ten occupants of the vehicle were rescued unharmed.”
In another operation on the same day, at approximately 8:30 p.m., bandits ambushed a passenger vehicle at Marabar Bangori on the Funtua-Gusau road in Faskari LGA.
Police operatives, acting promptly on intelligence, confronted the assailants, leading to another intense gunfight.
“Thanks to the officers’ superior firepower, the bandits abandoned their plans and fled. All passengers were successfully rescued,” Sadiq reported.
“Unfortunately, one of the victims sustained severe injuries from an assault by the assailants and was rushed to a hospital. The victim is now responding to treatment.”
Commending the officers’ bravery, the Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command, CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa, praised their dedication to combating crime. He urged the operatives to maintain their vigilance in safeguarding lives and property across the state.
“The commitment of the command to ensuring the safety and security of the people remains unwavering,” Musa affirmed.
