Kebbi State — August 16, 2025
A joint security operation in Kebbi State on Thursday, July 31, 2025, successfully rescued three kidnapped victims unhurt after a fierce gun duel with bandits in Sangara village, Shanga Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, the operation—led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Shanga—was conducted at about 3:30 p.m., when operatives traced the abductors to Shanga Hills.
The security team, comprising police officers, Nigerian Army troops, NSCDC personnel, vigilantes, and local hunters, engaged the bandits in a prolonged exchange of gunfire. The kidnappers fled the scene, abandoning their captives.
The rescued victims were identified as Muhammad Nasamu Namata (25), Gide Namata (20), and Hamidu Alhaji Namani (35). They were immediately taken to a medical facility in Birnin Kebbi for treatment and are said to be in stable condition.
Commissioner of Police, Bello M. Sani, commended the professionalism of the joint forces and urged sustained collaboration among security agencies. He also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information to aid security operations.
The bandits were reported to have escaped with possible gunshot wounds, while efforts to track and apprehend them are ongoing.
