Police Rescue 32 Kidnap Victims in Sokoto Operation

On Tuesday, the Sokoto State Police Command successfully rescued 32 kidnapped victims and foiled a significant bandit operation in Rabah Local Government Area, specifically in Maikujera village, which borders Zamfara State. The operation was initiated after the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Rabah received a distress call regarding an armed bandit invasion.

DSP Ahmad Rufai reported that the attackers were armed and moving with rustled livestock and abducted victims while shooting at residents. The DPO mobilized tactical units, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violent Crime Reaction Unit (VCRU), and coordinated with the Nigerian Army’s Forward Operating Base to block escape routes.

A fierce gun battle ensued, compelling the bandits to abandon their captives and flee into the forest. All 32 victims, comprising six adult males and 26 females, mostly children, were rescued and provided medical and psychological support.

The police reported that four individuals were killed during the initial attack. Commissioner of Police Hayatu Shaffa expressed condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public of ongoing efforts to apprehend the fleeing bandits.