The joint tactical team from Gurara and Paikoro local government areas of Niger state on Friday rescued 13 kidnap victims.
A statement by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Humanitarian Affairs, Emmanuel Umar made available to ASHENEWS on Friday, said the feat was in furtherance to the ongoing security clearance operation against banditry, terrorism, and other violent crime in the state.
“On 30/12/2022 at about 1300hrs, following a tip-off that some roving bandits were sighted around Bonu, Gwalu, and Chimbi areas of Gurara and Paikoro local government areas.
“Consequently, joint security forces raided the areas, and during the raid, the criminals were routed and engaged in a gun battle.
“In the course of this, majority of the hoodlums scampered for safety, while some of them escaped with bullet injuries and thirteen (13) kidnapped victims, that were abducted from different locations and held captives were abandoned by their abductors and rescued by security forces in Gurara LGA, Niger state.
Identities of the victims
“The victims are; Ramatu Usman 35yrs, Jamila Jafaru 15yrs, Fatima Usman 30yrs, Hassana Usman, Salamatu Bio, Suleman Usman, Bayi Mohammed, Awwalu Shagari, all kidnapped from Maje Daji via Dobi Gwagwalada Area Council, FCT.
“Others Fauziya Musa, Nazifa Ibrahim, Mansura Musa, Wasila Musa, all kidnapped from Gwalu village via Kafin-koro in Paikoro LGA of Niger state,” the statement reads.
Umaru said that all victims had been taken to a government medical facility for medical checks and had been reunited with their families.
The state government appreciated the continued efforts of the security agencies and community people.
Also, the state governor, Abubakar Sani Bello expressed his admiration for the gallantry shown by the security forces and charged them not to relent in their effort until they rout out from the state bandits and terrorists.
