A swift police operation has freed five people from kidnappers in Kebbi State, with three suspects arrested as security operatives intensify efforts to dismantle the gang.
The operation followed intelligence reports that armed men had stormed Dolen Kwandage Village in Suru Local Government Area, abducting three residents identified as Samaila Abubakar, 35, Dayyaba Muhammadu, 32, and Balki Hakimi, 31.
Police operatives, working with local vigilantes, reportedly tracked the attackers to their hideout and mounted a pursuit that forced them to abandon their captives.
The operation also secured the freedom of two women, Moe Muddaha, 50, and Hadiza Bello, 30, from Yarma Village, who had earlier been held by the same gang.
All five victims were rescued unhurt and taken to General Hospital, Dakingari, for medical checks before being reunited with their families.
The police identified the arrested suspects as Umaru Janyo, 49, Bube Kwaire, 28, both from Bendu Village, and Muhammadu Gyade, 22, from Tindifai Village.
Other members of the gang reportedly escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.
Items recovered during the operation included an unregistered Haojue motorcycle, 308,000 naira in cash, a chain and a jerrican.
The Police Command says patrols and surveillance have been strengthened across the area, while efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Commissioner of Police Umar M. Hadejia praised the officers and vigilantes for their swift response and cooperation, while urging residents to provide credible information that could assist security operations.
The development was announced by the Police Public Relations Officer, Bashir Usman, in a statement issued on Sunday, November 8, 2026.
