In a major breakthrough in the fight against banditry, the Katsina State Police Command has successfully foiled a kidnap attempt along the Funtua-Gusau highway, rescuing ten victims unharmed.

The incident occurred on the night of April 19, 2025, at approximately 9:35 p.m., when suspected armed bandits ambushed two vehicles traveling from Katsina to Faskari at Marabar Bangori village. The vehicles involved were a black Golf Saloon with registration number BWR 781 SW and an ash-colored Golf with registration number DTM 179 TA.

According to a statement released by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, the Faskari Division received a distress alert and swiftly deployed an Anti-Patrol Crime (APC) unit to the scene. The team engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle, ultimately overpowering them and forcing them to flee into the nearby bush.

Thanks to the officers’ quick response, all ten kidnapped individuals—comprising two drivers and eight passengers—were rescued unscathed. A manhunt is currently underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects, and an investigation has been launched.

Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Shehu, commended the officers involved for their courage and professionalism, emphasizing the Command’s unwavering commitment to public safety.

“We remain resolute in our mission to rid Katsina State of criminal elements,” CP Shehu stated. “We urge citizens to continue supporting us with timely and credible information to help combat insecurity.”