Police Storm Bandits’ Hideout In Kano, Rescue 10 Kidnap Victims After Gun Battle

The Kano State Police Command has rescued 10 passengers who were abducted by suspected bandits along the Jos-Kano highway in Doguwa Local Government Area after security operatives engaged the attackers in a gun battle.

According to Ireporter Online, the incident occurred on Sunday, July 26, when armed men reportedly intercepted a Toyota Hiace bus travelling from Jos to Kano and abducted several passengers.

Police spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Kiyawa, disclosed that the attackers blocked the highway around 5:30pm at the Folgore Forest area between Gate Two Safer Highway and Dogo Dutse.

He said the vehicle, with registration number BKK 6824 XA, was carrying 20 passengers when five armed suspects, reportedly carrying weapons, attacked the bus and took 13 passengers into the bush.

Following a distress report, the Divisional Police Officer of Doguwa Division quickly mobilised tactical teams to the area, leading to an encounter between the officers and the suspected kidnappers.

The police operatives engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange, forcing them to retreat and abandon some of the victims.

Kiyawa said the swift response of the security team resulted in the rescue of nine passengers, while another victim later escaped from captivity, bringing the total number of rescued victims to 10.

The rescued passengers were immediately taken to Doguwa General Hospital, where they received medical attention and were confirmed to be in stable condition.

The police command said efforts were ongoing to rescue the remaining three victims still being held by the attackers, while tactical teams have intensified operations to locate the fleeing suspects.

Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, praised members of the public for providing useful information that supported the rescue operation.

Bakori assured residents that the command would continue to strengthen security measures across the state and protect lives and property.

He urged citizens to remain alert and report suspicious activities to security authorities, assuring that investigations into the attack would continue until those responsible are brought to justice.