Operatives of Bauchi State Police Command in collaboration with the Hunters Group have killed eight kidnappers/bandits after engaging in firefights.
A statement issued by police public relations officer (PPRO), Bauchi State Command, SP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, and made available to journalists in Bauchi yesterday, said the operatives also rescued three kidnapped victims.
According to him, the operation was carried out on April 22, 2024, following credible information received by the Command regarding suspicious activities near the state boundary with Plateau State.
He said the detectives deployed from Gumau, Tilde, and Tulu Divisions encountered armed bandits during their routine patrol and engaged in a firefight in self-defence, resulting in the neutralisation of four suspected kidnappers.
He said, “Two of the suspects in their eleventh hour, who later died, confessed to multiple kidnapping incidents across Bauchi and Plateau states, including the heinous killing of a village head in Ruruwai village, Lame district, Toro local government area of Bauchi State, on March 17, 2024.
“Based on the information provided by the late suspects, the detectives proceeded to the kidnappers’ hideout to rescue three kidnapped victims from Dokayel village, who were taken captive on April 20, 2024.
“In a subsequent firefight with the remaining accomplices guarding the hostages, four (4) kidnappers were also neutralised, and the three (3) captives were safely rescued without any ransom paid.”
Wakil further said this operation is a testimony to the commitment and dedication of the command to protect the lives and properties of the residents of the state.
The state commissioner of police, CP Auwal Musa Muhammad has commended the officers and men involved for their heroism and professionalism during the operation.
He encouraged them to continue their efforts in maintaining law and order. He also urged the general public to trust and cooperate with the police by providing useful information and remaining vigilant.