In its sustained offensive against banditry and other violent crimes, the Zamfara State Police Command has recorded another significant operational success, resulting in the rescue of kidnap victims and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and a Boxer motorcycle during separate operations across the state.
A statement signed by the command public relations officer DSP Yazid Abubakar said on 22nd July, 2026, at about 1030 hrs, a large number of armed bandits blocked the Gummi–Sokoto Road, intercepted a Golf vehicle with registration number BE 654 ANC (Kaduna), and abducted its occupants with the intention of taking them to an unknown destination.
It said that upon receiving the distress report, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) swiftly mobilised to the scene. On sighting the approaching police team, the bandits opened fire on the operatives, who responded with superior firepower. Unable to withstand the sustained exchange of gunfire, the bandits fled into the surrounding bush with suspected gunshot injuries, abandoning the victims. Consequently, Hauwa’u Saidu, Hauwa’u Umaru, and their three children were rescued unhurt. The victims were immediately taken to a medical facility for medical examination and were subsequently reunited with their families.
In a separate operation conducted on the same day at about 1000 hrs, a police patrol team on routine confidence-building patrol along the Kaura Namoda–Gusau Road encountered a group of suspected armed bandits. The operatives engaged the criminals in a gun duel, forcing them to flee into the bush with suspected gunshot injuries.
A thorough search of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and one Boxer motorcycle. Efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects, recover additional weapons, and bring all those involved to justice.
The Commissioner of Police, CP A. M Bello, PSC+, mnips, reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across Zamfara State. He urged residents to continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information to strengthen the fight against banditry and other criminal activities.
