Foiled kidnap attempt leaves two dead in Katsina

An attempt by armed bandits to abduct 10 passengers in a commercial vehicle in Katsina State has been foiled by police personnel, even as two of the passengers have lost their lives in the process.

A spokesperson for the police command in the state, ASP Abubakar Aliyu, in a statement, said the incident occurred on Christmas Eve at about 8.30pm, in Jibia Local Government Area.

“On December 24th, 2024, at about 2030 hrs, some suspected armed bandits, armed with dangerous weapons and shooting sporadically, attacked a commercial vehicle at Kwanar Makera along the Katsina to Magama Jibia road in Jibia LGA, Katsina State, in an attempt to kidnap ten occupants of the said vehicle,” Aliyu said.

“Upon receipt of the distress call, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Jibia swiftly led a team of operatives to the scene, engaging the bandits in a gun duel, successfully foiled the kidnap attempt, and rescued all the ten victims.

READ ALSO: Katsina police rescue 10 kidnap victims, two die from injuries

“Four of the rescued victims sustained gunshot injuries as a result of the bandits’ attack and were rushed to the hospital for immediate medical attention.

“Unfortunately, two victims succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment.

“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects as the investigation proceeds.

“The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command, CP Aliyu Musa, while commending the officers exceptional display of gallantry and dedication to duty, charged officers to sustain the tempo.
“He further urged members of the public with useful information on suspected criminal activities to report to the nearest police station for prompt and decisive action.”