A police rescue operation in Kaduna State ended in both relief and tragedy after nine kidnapped victims were freed from armed bandits. However, two police officers lost their lives in an ambush while returning from the successful mission.
The development has highlighted the growing dangers security personnel face while battling banditry in parts of northern Nigeria. Moreover, it reflects the sacrifices made by officers who continue to risk their lives to protect vulnerable communities.
The Kaduna State Police Command confirmed that the operation took place in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, where intelligence reports led security operatives to suspected kidnappers holding several abducted farmers.
According to the police, the incident began on June 24, 2026, at about 12:45 p.m. after credible intelligence revealed that about 15 heavily armed bandits had stormed farmlands around Unguwan Sa’idu village, a few kilometres from Birnin Gwari town.
The attackers reportedly abducted several farmers before fleeing into nearby bushes.
Acting swiftly, the Area Commander of Birnin Gwari and the Divisional Police Officer mobilised patrol teams for a rescue operation. Furthermore, personnel from the Police Mobile Force and KADVIS joined the mission to strengthen the response.
Upon reaching the location, security operatives reportedly encountered the armed kidnappers.
“On arrival, the operatives sighted the bandits and engaged them. As a result of the superior firepower of the security team, the bandits fled on motorcycles into the bush,” Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said.
The fleeing criminals were immediately pursued by the security team. Consequently, they abandoned their captives while escaping into the surrounding forest.
“The team launched a hot pursuit, forcing the criminals to abandon their captives and flee for safety,” Hassan stated.
The rescued victims were identified as Hudu Rabiu, Yusuf Sagir, Sagir Rabiu, Muhammad Kabir, Kabir Lawal, Idris Abubakar, Mustapha Zayyanu, Kabiru Rabiu and Usman Lawal.
According to the police, all nine victims were discovered tied with ropes after their abductors fled the scene.
“The victims were found tied with ropes and abandoned by their captors. They were rescued unharmed and reunited with their families,” Hassan added.
However, the operation took a heartbreaking turn shortly afterwards.
While returning from the rescue mission, the police team reportedly drove into an ambush laid by suspected bandits.
“Regrettably, while returning from the successful operation, two police officers were ambushed by suspected bandits who had laid in wait along the route,” Hassan disclosed.
The officers suffered gunshot wounds during the attack.
“The officers sustained gunshot wounds and sadly paid the supreme price in the line of duty,” he said.
Reacting to the incident, Kaduna State Commissioner of Police Rabiu Muhammad expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the officers.
He described their sacrifice as an example of courage and commitment to national service.
The police chief said their deaths were “a testament to the courage, dedication and selflessness of officers who risk their lives daily to protect the public.”
He further assured residents that the command remains committed to restoring peace across affected communities.
According to him, the command “honours their memory and service to the nation” while intensifying efforts against criminal groups.
Meanwhile, tactical operations have continued across Birnin Gwari to locate the fleeing suspects.
“Investigations and tactical operations are ongoing to track down and arrest the perpetrators responsible for the attack and bring them to justice,” the statement added.
Birnin Gwari has remained one of Kaduna State’s most troubled areas due to recurring bandit attacks, kidnappings and violent crimes.
Therefore, security agencies have continued to increase patrols, intelligence gathering and coordinated operations within the region.
