The Bauchi state Police command has confirmed the rescue of 3 abducted victims and the arrest of 8 bandits in an operation on 22nd April, around the Bauchi, Plateau border.
Spokesperson of the state police command, SP Ahmad Muhammed Wakil, announced this in a press release, noting that the security forces acted on reliable reports of suspected bandits activities in the area.
The statement read: “Operatives of Bauchi state Police Command in conjunction with the hunters group have successfully rescued three kidnap victims and neutralised eight kidnappers/bandits. The operation was carried out on 22nd April 2024, following credible information received by the command regarding suspicious activities near the border between Bauchi and Plateau states.
“The detectives deployed from Gumau, Tilde, and Tulu Divisions encountered armed bandits during their routine patrol and engaged in a firefight in self-defence, resulting in the neutralization of four (4) suspected kidnappers. Two of the suspects in their eleventh hour, who later died, confessed to multiple kidnapping incidents across Bauchi and Plateau states, including the heinous killing of a village head in Ruruwai village, Lame District, Toro LGA, Bauchi state on 17th March 2024.
“Based on the information provided by the late suspects, the detectives proceeded to the kidnappers’ hideout to rescue three kidnap victims from Dokayel village, who were taken captive on 20th April 2024. In a subsequent firefight with the remaining accomplices guarding the hostages, four (4) kidnappers were also neutralized, and the three (3) captives were safely rescued without any ransom paid.
“The Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command, CP Auwal Musa Muhammad psc, commends the officers and men involved for their heroism and professionalism during the operation. He encourages them to continue their efforts in maintaining law and order. While the general public are urged to trust and cooperate with the police by providing useful information and remain vigilant.”