Katsina, June 13, 2026 – Security operatives in Katsina State have rescued nine passengers after successfully repelling suspected kidnappers who intercepted a commercial vehicle along the Katsina-Kankara road.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the spokesperson of the Katsina State Police Command, DSP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on Thursday at about 2:30 p.m. near Tashar Kanya village in Kankara Local Government Area when armed assailants blocked the highway and stopped a Volkswagen Golf transporting passengers from Dandume to Katsina.
The attackers reportedly seized all 11 occupants of the vehicle and moved them into the surrounding area.
Following a distress alert, the Divisional Police Officer in Kankara mobilised a joint team of officers, including personnel from the Violent Crime Rescue Unit, to respond to the situation.
The operatives engaged the suspects in a fierce exchange of gunfire, forcing them to retreat from the area.
Police said the success of the operation was aided by the tactical response and superior firepower of the security team, which compelled the attackers to abandon their captives and flee into nearby bushes.
A search-and-rescue operation conducted after the confrontation led to the safe recovery of nine victims without injuries.
Authorities said efforts were continuing to locate the remaining two passengers while security personnel intensify the search for the fleeing suspects.
The Commissioner of Police, Ali Umar-Fage, commended the officers involved in the operation for their courage, professionalism and swift response.
He reiterated the command’s determination to tackle criminal activities across the state and safeguard residents and travellers.
The police chief also appealed to members of the public to continue providing timely and reliable information that could assist security agencies in preventing crime and apprehending offenders.