The Bauchi State Police Command, in collaboration with forest guards, has rescued two kidnapped victims during a coordinated security operation in Gwamnare Forest, located in Ningi Local Government Area of the state.
The rescue operation was carried out by a joint security team comprising operatives of the Police Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, officers from the Ningi Divisional Police Headquarters, and forest guards.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Abubakar, the operation was conducted following directives from the Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, to intensify efforts against kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.
Police said the operation targeted the Gwamnare Forest, which has recently witnessed a series of kidnapping incidents affecting nearby communities, including Dogon Ruwa and Rafin Chiyawa villages.
The victims rescued were identified as Alhaji Yahaya, a 50-year-old resident of Masallachi Hamlet in Dogon Ruwa Village, and Alhaji Kabiru, a resident of the Gwamnare Forest area.
Authorities confirmed that the victims were rescued unharmed and have since been reunited with their families.
The command added that security personnel have continued clearance operations within the forest in a bid to rescue other victims believed to still be in captivity and to dismantle criminal hideouts operating in the area.
The Bauchi State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with local security outfits and community members to combat kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state.
Residents were also encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security agency as efforts to improve safety across the state continue.
