In order to stem the tide of rampant cases of kidnappings, cattle rustling and armed banditry along Toro, Gumau and Ningi Axis, the Bauchi State Police Command in collaboration with a renowned hunter, Ali Kwara, have embarked on a well coordinated operation relying on intelligence reports.

According to the Commissioner of Police in the State, Zaki Ahmed, the team stormed Yuga forest, a notorious hideout for kidnappers in Toro LGA of Bauchi State in order to apprehend the hoodlums and rescue several hostages who were held captives and awaiting ransom payment by their families.

CP Ahmed said: “On sighting the Police and hunters, the suspects opened fire, which triggered a fierce gun battle. After incurring heavy casualties, hoodlums abandoned their rifles and escaped into the bush with bullet wounds.

“In a related development, following intelligence report, the command also arrested 19 suspected kidnappers at various locations. Three suspects were arrested in Yuga Forest, Toro LGA; one suspect in Jimi village of Darazo LGA; one suspect in Tama District of Toro LGA; two in Ningi LGA; three in Kundum of Bauchi LGA; three in Giwa hamlet of Toro; three in Ganjuwa LGA; one in Tashan Durumi in Toro LGA; and two suspects from Alkaleri LGA of Bauchi State. The command further arrested a suspected informant and negotiator of the kidnappers in Gilliri Village of Bauchi LGA.

“Exhibits recovered include eight AK 47 Rifles, one AK 49 Rifle, one G3 Rifle, two Automatic Pump Action Guns, one double barrel gun; one Single Barrel gun, one Sub Machine gun, one locally made Pistol, six Machetes, eleven magazines, 49 Cartridges, 19 ammunition of LAR rifle, 330 assorted Ammunition. Also, a sum of N388,190 was recovered from the bandits. Other items include charm, padlock and chain, two blue magazine bags, two expanded ammunition of 7.62mm, one Jincheng Motorcycle, three GSM phones, 37 cows and 12 sheep.”

According to the CP, 48 hostages were rescued in good condition of health. “And efforts are being intensified to apprehend fleeing suspects. Members of the public are urged to assist the police with useful information by reporting suspicious persons, especially those with bullet wounds to the nearest police station for prompt action,” he said.

The CP further warned members of the public to desist from shielding suspected kidnappers under false pretence that they have repented without proper consultation with the Police.