By Joy Yesufu
The Zamfara State Police Command has rescued five travellers abducted by suspected bandits along the Anka–Bukkuyum Road following a swift rescue operation by security operatives.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Yazid Abubakar, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, saying the victims were rescued unharmed after operatives of the Anti-Violent Crime Response Unit engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle.
According to the police, the incident occurred at about 7 p.m. on June 10 when armed bandits blocked the Anka–Bukkuyum Road and abducted five travellers.
Abubakar said police operatives immediately mobilised to the area upon receiving a distress call and launched a coordinated pursuit of the attackers.
“The operatives tracked the suspects into the surrounding bush, where they intercepted them and engaged them in a gun duel,” he said.
He added that the bandits abandoned the victims and fled into the forest after coming under intense pressure from the security team.
“Faced with the superior firepower and determination of the police operatives, the criminals fled the scene with suspected gunshot wounds, leaving the victims behind,” the statement said.
The police spokesperson disclosed that all five victims were successfully rescued without injury and reunited with their families.
He further stated that two motorcycles suspected to have been used by the bandits during the operation were recovered.
Abubakar reiterated the command’s commitment to sustaining operations against banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
He also appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities and improve public safety.
