The Katsina State Police Command reported that security forces successfully disrupted multiple kidnapping attempts by bandits in Jibia Local Government Area on Thursday night, rescuing 21 hostages.
The operation, marked by intense gunfire, tragically resulted in the deaths of one Katsina State Community Watch Corps member and a vigilante.
In a statement released Friday, Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Abubakar Sadiq, confirmed that the coordinated effort involved the Katsina State Police, Nigerian military, community watch corps, and local vigilantes.
Together, they repelled simultaneous attacks across three areas in Jibia Township on November 7, 2024, securing the release of the victims.
The statement reads: “At about 2115 hrs (9:15 pm), suspected armed bandits launched coordinated attacks on Ka’ida, Unguwar One Boy, and Danmarke quarters, all in Jibia Township, Jibia LGA, Katsina State. The rapid response of the joint security team, led by the DPO Jibia, repelled the attackers, leading to a fierce gun battle that lasted for over an hour.
“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.
“Regrettably, five persons sustained gunshot injuries as a result of the bandits’ attack. The injured victims were immediately taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
“Tragically, one member of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps and a vigilante lost their lives during the encounter, paying the ultimate price. Further updates will be provided in due course,” the statement read.
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The statement noted that the command, alongside other security agencies and key stakeholders, is ramping up efforts to track down those responsible for the crime.
Katsina State Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Musa, reassured residents of the command’s unwavering dedication to protecting lives and property across the state.
He also encouraged citizens to stay alert and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency hotline.
