Police in Kebbi rescue 36 kidnap victims unharmed after a daring gunfight with bandits, reuniting them safely with their families.

[dropcap]O[/dropcap]peratives of the Kebbi State Police Command have successfully rescued 36 kidnapped victims following a daring confrontation with bandits along the Mairairai/Bena road in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area.

The state’s Police Public Relations Officer, Nafiu Abubakar, disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital.

Also read: Bandits block Gusau-Funtua highway, kidnap travelers

He revealed that the armed bandits, in large numbers, had ambushed the road on 8 December 2024, abducting 36 individuals returning from their farms.

Upon receiving the distress report, a joint security task force comprising the Police, Army, and local vigilante groups quickly mobilised to the scene.

Engaging the assailants in a fierce gun battle, the team successfully overpowered the bandits, who fled into the forest with injuries sustained during the confrontation.

Abubakar confirmed that all 36 victims were rescued unhurt and have since been reunited with their families.

Reacting to the operation, Kebbi State Police Commissioner Bello Sani commended the officers for their courage, professionalism, and swift action.

He called for sustained efforts to ensure that Kebbi remains hostile territory for criminal elements.

“I applaud the bravery of our officers and the synergy between our forces. Together, we must continue to intensify efforts to decisively combat banditry and other criminal activities in the state,” Sani stated.