Security operatives in Katsina State have successfully rescued five kidnapped victims following a gun duel with suspected armed bandits in Sabon Garin Safana, Dutsinma Local Government Area.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, April 13, 2025, when the armed bandits stormed the community and abducted seven individuals, including two infants. According to intelligence sources quoted by counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, the assailants infiltrated the village around 2:15 a.m., whisking their victims into the forest.
Upon receiving a distress call, security personnel swiftly mobilized to the scene and confronted the bandits in a fierce exchange of gunfire. The operation led to the successful rescue of five victims: Abdullahi Usman (40), Asma’u Abdullahi (20), Safiya Abdullahi (1), Sumayya Yahuza (20), and Fatima Yahuza (1). All five were rescued unharmed.
Tragically, one of the victims, Ibrahim Sale (30), was fatally shot by the bandits during the confrontation. His death underscores the ongoing threat posed by armed criminal groups operating in parts of the state.
Security forces have since launched a continued search-and-rescue effort to locate the remaining two abductees, whose identities were not disclosed at the time of reporting.
The attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents linked to banditry in Nigeria’s northwestern region, where armed groups have increasingly targeted rural communities for ransom, cattle rustling, and other criminal activities.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to tackling insecurity and ensuring the safe return of the remaining victims. Residents have also been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to law enforcement agencies.
As of the time of this report, the rescued victims have been reunited with their families, while security operations remain ongoing in the affected areas.
