Police Neutralize Bandit, Rescue Kidnap Victims in Bauchi Operation

The Bauchi State Police Command has successfully rescued two abducted victims following a fierce gun battle with suspected bandits in the early hours of Friday. The operation, which took place in Kataraje village near Yankari Game Reserve, resulted in the death of one assailant and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle.

According to authorities, the bandits stormed the village around 2:30 a.m., kidnapping two residents—60-year-old Alhaji Ango Mallam Idi and 35-year-old Musa Alhaji Shumo—while two others sustained injuries. Following a distress call from Yalo and Mansur communities, police operatives swiftly mobilized a joint operation to track down the suspects.

CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, the state police spokesperson, confirmed that a shootout ensued, leading to the neutralization of one bandit and the retrieval of a firearm. The rescued victims were unharmed and have since been reunited with their families.

The injured victims, identified as Rabiu Sale (50) and Sale Akko (45), received immediate medical attention. Security forces have intensified operations in the area to prevent further attacks.