Kehinde Fajobi
Operatives of the Katsina State Police Command thwarted two kidnapping attempts in Jibia and Faskari Local Government Areas, rescuing 20 victims and forcing the bandits to flee with gunshot injuries.
The Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Musa, commended the officers’ bravery and professionalism, urging them to sustain their efforts in combating crime.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents in the state.
Police spokesman ASP Abubakar Sadiq, in a statement on Sunday, detailed the incidents.
The first occurred on December 7, 2024, at around 7:00 p.m. along the Katsina–Magamar Jibia road in Jibia LGA. Armed bandits, wielding AK-47 rifles, attacked a moving vehicle in an attempt to abduct its occupants.
“Operatives attached to the Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters, acting on a tip-off, responded swiftly and engaged the bandits in a gun duel, forcing them to abandon their mission and flee with gunshot injuries,” Sadiq said.
“All 10 occupants of the vehicle were successfully rescued unhurt.”
The second incident took place at about 8:30 p.m. the same day at Marabar Bangori along the Funtua–Gusau Road in Faskari LGA. Suspected armed bandits ambushed a vehicle carrying passengers.
Police operatives, alerted to the situation, quickly mobilised to the scene and engaged the assailants in a fierce gunfight.
“Due to superior firepower, the bandits abandoned their heinous plan and fled the scene. All passengers were successfully rescued,” the statement read.
Sadiq added, “Unfortunately, one of the rescued victims sustained severe injuries from an assault by the assailants and was rushed to the hospital. He is currently responding to medical treatment.”
The police assured the public of their unwavering determination to protect lives and property across the state.