Police repel bandits attack, rescue 24 kidnap victims in Zamfara

The Zamfara State Police Command has unconditionally rescued 24 kidnap victims abducted in Gurgurawa village, Bungudu Local Government Area of the state, on Friday night.

Addressing newsmen at the command’s headquarters in Gusau, the police spokesman, SP Mohammed Shehu, said police tactical operatives attached to 42 PMF Squadron Gusau, on anti-banditry operations along Gurgurawa axis received a distress call that armed bandits in large number have invaded the village and abducted some residents.

“On receiving the information, the tactical operatives, in collaboration with the vigilante group of the area swung into action and mobilized to the location for an extensive search and rescue operation.

“On sighting the operatives, the hoodlums started shooting sporadically but were repelled by the operatives. As a result of the superior firepower of the tactical operatives, the hoodlums fled and abandoned the victims.

“Fourteen victims, mostly women, were rescued at the scene while 10 others, who scampered for safety, escaped back to the village unhurt. The victims received medical treatment before being debriefed by the police. All have been reunited with their families,” he said.

SP Shehu said that seven operational motorcycles, belonging to the bandits were recovered during the operations.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr Ayuba N. Elkanah commended the resilience of the operatives and enjoined them to sustain the tempo, while assuring members of the public of the police’s continuous commitment to end the lingering security challenges bedevilling the state.