15th February, 2025
A dramatic joint operation by the Police and local vigilantes has ended in a fierce gun battle, leaving four suspected kidnappers dead and a 60-year-old hostage rescued in Kebbi State.
According to Zagazola Makama, security analyst and counter insurgency expert, the daring rescue unfolded on February 14 at about 1:45 p.m. when armed men stormed Gobiraje Village in Suru Local Government Area and abducted Umaru Bawa from his home.
However, their criminal plans were swiftly derailed as a combined security force, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Suru, launched a relentless pursuit into Tundufai Forest in Dakingari.
Gunfire erupted as the operatives closed in on the kidnappers, resulting in the elimination of four suspects. One was captured alive with gunshot wounds, while others fled with injuries, leaving behind a trail of chaos.
The operation not only secured Bawa’s safe release but also led to the recovery of ₦3 million in ransom money already paid by his desperate family.
Security forces have intensified manhunts for the fleeing criminals, vowing to crush kidnapping networks in the region.
