KANKARA — A kidnap operation targeting travellers along the Kankara–Dutsin-Ma road in Katsina State was foiled by the police after operatives engaged suspected armed bandits in a gun duel and rescued seven victims.
The incident occurred at about 9:45pm on Monday, September 21, 2026, around Unguwar Kanawa-Dantudu village in Kankara Local Government Area.
According to the Katsina State Police Command, the victims were travelling from Kaduna State to Dutsin-Ma when the suspected bandits mounted a roadblock and intercepted their Volkswagen Golf 3 vehicle, with registration number BCH 58 SB.
The vehicle was being driven by Sani Umar, 35, who was travelling with six passengers.
Following a distress call received at the Kankara Divisional Police Headquarters, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) immediately mobilised operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) and moved swiftly towards the scene.
The police team reportedly tracked the fleeing suspects and intercepted them, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
The confrontation forced the suspected bandits to abandon the victims and flee into the surrounding area.
All seven occupants of the vehicle were subsequently rescued unhurt, according to the police.
The rescued persons were identified as Sani Umar, 35, the driver; Emmanuela Anyaba, 20; Regina Felix, 19; Peace Joseph, 23; Mercy Michael, 19; Maryam Salisu, 21; and Nafisa Yakubu, 18.
The victims were immediately taken to the nearest hospital for medical assessment.
Police said they were examined and certified stable before being discharged.
The Command further disclosed that the rescued travellers had since been reunited with their respective families, while security operatives continued efforts to track down and arrest the suspects who fled the scene.
The successful intervention has once again highlighted the importance of rapid response to distress calls, particularly along routes vulnerable to criminal attacks.
Reacting to the operation, the Commissioner of Police in Katsina State, CP Ali Umar Fage, psc(+), mnips, commended the officers and operatives involved for their prompt response and courage during the operation.
The Commissioner assured residents that the Command would continue to take decisive measures against criminal elements threatening the safety of communities and travellers across the state.
He also appealed to members of the public to strengthen cooperation with the police by providing timely and credible information that could assist security agencies in preventing crimes and apprehending suspects.
The Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining security across Katsina State.
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