Operatives attached to Rabah Division, in collaboration with the military, have foiled an armed banditry attempt along the Rabah-Maikujeru road in Sokoto State, rescuing five kidnapped victims unhurt and recovering their vehicle.
This was stated by DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, PPRO of the Sokoto State Command.
A distress call was received on May 7, 2026, at about 20:45 hours, reporting that a large number of armed bandits had blocked the Rabah-Maikujeru road.
The hoodlums were shooting sporadically before kidnapping six persons traveling in a Canter truck loaded with charcoal.
Upon receiving the information, the police immediately mobilized a joint team of police tactical units and the military Forward Operating Base (FOB) to the scene.
Security operatives engaged the bandits in a fierce gun duel that lasted for a considerable period.
The hoodlums were eventually overpowered and fled into the nearby forest.
During the operation, five of the six kidnapped victims were rescued unhurt, and the Canter vehicle was recovered.
No casualty or injury was sustained by any member of the security team or the rescued victims.
“The rescued persons have been reunited with their families, and the vehicle is in police custody pending further investigation.
“Security teams are currently combing the bushes in search of the sixth victim, who reportedly ran into the forest to escape from the hoodlums.
Efforts are also being intensified to track down and arrest the fleeing bandits,” the statement said.
All neighboring police divisions have been placed on alert and directed to maintain a high level of vigilance, as the bandits may attempt to infiltrate their areas of operation (AOR).
A lookout notice has also been issued for the suspects.
The Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of lives and property and urged members of the public to continue providing timely information to assist in crime prevention and control.
