A gun battle erupted between the police and armed bandits during a kidnapping attempt on a 10-passenger commercial vehicle in Kwanar Makera, Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State.
According to a statement issued by ASP Abubakar Aliyu, spokesperson for the Katsina Police Command, the incident occurred around 8:30 p.m. on the Katsina-Magama-Jibia road.
The assailants, armed with dangerous weapons, ambushed the vehicle, shooting sporadically in an attempt to abduct its occupants.
The swift response of the Divisional Police Officer in Jibia, who led a team to the scene, thwarted the kidnapping.
The police engaged the bandits in a fierce gunfight, successfully rescuing all 10 passengers from the vehicle.
However, four of the rescued victims sustained gunshot injuries during the attack and were rushed to the hospital.
Tragically, two of them succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment.
Efforts are underway to track down the fleeing bandits as investigations continue, ASP Aliyu confirmed.
Commending the officers’ bravery and commitment, Police Commissioner Aliyu Abubakar-Musa urged them to maintain their vigilance.
He also appealed to the public to provide timely information on criminal activities to aid in effective policing.
