The Katsina State Police Command has failed an attempted kidnapping by suspected armed bandits in Jibia Local Government Area, Katsina State, rescuing 21 people from captivity after a prolonged and intense gun battle late Thursday.
One member of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps and a vigilante lost their lives in the line of duty during this confrontation.
Spokesperson for the State Police Command, ASP Abubakar Sadiq, in a statement issued on Friday detailed the efforts of the Katsina State Police Command, the Nigerian military, and local community watch groups to thwart a coordinated attack on three separate quarters within Jibia Township on November 7, 2024.
At approximately 9:15 p.m., armed bandits launched simultaneous assaults on Ka’ida, Unguwar One Boy, and Danmarke quarters, areas known for community cohesion yet vulnerable to sudden attacks.
The joint security team, under the leadership of the Divisional Police Officer of Jibia, responded swiftly to the emergency, engaging in a fierce exchange of gunfire that reportedly lasted over an hour.
The statement explained, “The superior firepower and tactical advantage of the joint security team eventually forced the bandits to retreat with unspecified casualties, and the operation resulted in the successful rescue of 16 victims trapped by the bandits.”
The response from security operatives not only drove the bandits back but also ensured that none of the hostages were further harmed.
However, the encounter was not without loss, as five individuals sustained gunshot wounds and were promptly transported to a nearby hospital, receiving necessary medical care.
Regrettably, a member of the local Community Watch Corps and a vigilant citizen sacrificed their lives during the standoff, underscoring the perils faced by those dedicated to community safety.
In light of these events, Commissioner of Police Aliyu Musa conveyed the command’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
He emphasized that the command is working diligently, alongside other security agencies, to bring those responsible to justice.
Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s designated emergency numbers, fostering collective security efforts in Katsina.
