The Kaduna State Police Command has rescued nine kidnapped victims in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, but lost two officers during a subsequent ambush by suspected bandits.
Police spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, said the operation was based on credible intelligence received at about 12:45 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24.
The report indicated that about 15 armed bandits had abducted farmers near Unguwan Sa’idu village, close to Birnin Gwari town.
Security operatives, including Police Mobile Force and KADVIS personnel, were immediately mobilised for a rescue mission.
The Area Commander and Divisional Police Officer led the response team to the scene of the attack.
On arrival, the operatives engaged the bandits in a gun battle, forcing them to flee into surrounding bushes.
The bandits escaped on motorcycles but abandoned their captives during the confrontation.
Police immediately pursued the fleeing suspects, intensifying pressure on them.
The rescued victims were identified as Hudu Rabiu, Yusuf Sagir, Sagir Rabiu, Muhammad Kabir, Kabir Lawal, Idris Abubakar, Mustapha Zayyanu, Kabiru Rabiu, and Usman Lawal.
They were found tied with ropes and left behind by their abductors.
The victims were rescued unharmed and reunited with their families after the operation.
However, tragedy struck as officers were returning from the mission.
Suspected bandits ambushed the team along their route and opened fire on them.
Two police officers were fatally shot during the attack.
Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, expressed condolences to the families of the fallen officers.
He described their deaths as a sacrifice in the service of national security.
He said the officers showed courage, dedication, and professionalism during the operation.
The police command confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
Tactical operations have also been intensified to track down the attackers.
Authorities said efforts are underway to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace and security in the affected area.
