The Sokoto State Police Command has rescued two people who were kidnapped after a serious gunfight with suspected bandits. This happened during a security operation in Yabo Local Government Area on Sunday, November 8.
The operation took place in the early hours and involved a team made up of the 7 Police Mobile Force, Violent Crime Response Unit, Anti-Kidnapping Unit, and Yabo Police Division.
The police started this operation based on reliable information about armed bandits and their captives at Dan Tafki village and nearby hills opposite Binji Musa in Yabo LGA.
According to a statement from the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufai, the security team faced heavy gunfire when they arrived at the bandits' hideout. This led to a fierce gun battle that lasted for several hours.
The operatives eventually overpowered the bandits with better firepower and tactical strategies. This forced the criminals to run away and leave their captives behind.
“Unable to withstand the sustained pressure from the team, the bandits fled the scene in disarray, abandoning their captives and leaving behind their hideout,” the statement said.
The two hostages rescued were identified as Nafisa Abubakar, a woman from Dono village, and Aminu Sahabi, a man from the same community.
The police said the victims were taken to a hospital right away for medical care and psychological support.
They also mentioned that the joint security team destroyed several structures used by the bandits, including silos, during the operation.
The Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, praised the operatives for their professionalism, bravery, and teamwork.
Shaffa stressed the command’s promise to continue operations against banditry, kidnapping, and other crimes in the state.
He assured residents that security agencies would step up intelligence-led operations to dismantle criminal networks and protect lives and property.
The command also shared that a follow-up operation has started to track down the escaping bandits and destroy any remaining criminal hideouts in the area.
It urged residents, community leaders, and other stakeholders to work with security agencies by giving credible and timely information that could help catch the fleeing suspects.
The police also advised the public to stay alert and report any suspicious movements and activities to the nearest security office.
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