Security forces overpower bandits, rescue 32 kidnap victims in Sokoto

Operatives of the Sokoto State Police Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, have rescued 32 kidnapped victims and foiled a major bandit operation in Maikujera Village, Rabah Local Government Area.

A statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Ahmad Rufa’i, on Monday said the operation followed a distress call reporting the movement of heavily armed bandits with rustled livestock and kidnapped victims.

The statement said police tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and Violent Crime Reaction Unit, swiftly mobilized and, in coordination with the Army Forward Operating Base, blocked the major escape routes.

According to the statement, a fierce gun battle ensued as the security forces confronted the bandits, adding that overwhelmed by the superior firepower, the criminals abandoned the hostages and rustled animals before fleeing into the forest.

“A subsequent search operation led to the rescue of 32 kidnapped victims, comprising six adult males and 26 females, most of them children.

“The rescued victims were evacuated to safety and are receiving medical and psychological support ahead of their reunification with their families. However, four persons were confirmed killed before the arrival of security forces,” the statement said.