The Kano State Police Command has rescued 10 passengers and repelled an attack by suspected bandits on the Jos–Kano highway in Doguwa Local Government Area, while efforts are ongoing to secure the release of three remaining victims.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, Abdullahi Kiyawa, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday, saying the incident occurred on Sunday, July 26, at about 5:30 p.m. along the Folgore Forest axis between Gate Two Safer Highway and Dogo Dutse.

According to him, a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number BKK 6824 XA, travelling from Jos to Kano, was intercepted by five armed men wielding machetes and a firearm.

The assailants reportedly blocked the highway, attacked the vehicle and abducted 13 of the 20 passengers on board. The police said the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Doguwa Division received a distress call and immediately mobilised tactical police operatives to the scene.

On arrival, the officers engaged the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to retreat.

“As a result of the swift and coordinated response of the Police team, nine victims were successfully rescued, while another male victim later escaped from captivity,” the statement read in part.

The rescued victims were evacuated to Doguwa General Hospital for medical evaluation and are said to be in stable condition and receiving treatment.

The police said additional tactical teams have been deployed while intelligence-led operations have been intensified to rescue the remaining captives and apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Meanwhile, the Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, commended members of the public for providing timely information that aided the operation.

He reassured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, particularly women and children, and urged the public to continue reporting suspicious movements and activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency lines.

The command added that investigations into the incident are ongoing and that further updates would be communicated as developments unfold. (Channels TV)

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