The Niger State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 35 kidnapped victims, including women and children, who were being held captive by suspected bandits.
According to the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, the victims were intercepted while being transported to Yauri in Kebbi State. They hailed from various locations in Niger State, including Pandogari, Madaka, Allawa, and Sarkin-Pawa, as well as other areas such as Taraba.
In a statement issued on Sunday, SP Abiodun disclosed that between July 3 and 5, 2025, police tactical teams stationed along the Madaka–Makujeri road intercepted a vehicle driven by Yusuf Abdullahi of Birnin Gwari. The suspect was conveying 24 kidnapped victims to Yauri, Kebbi State, where they were to be handed over to other members of the criminal group. Others had reportedly been dropped off in Tegina to continue their journey in a separate vehicle.
The driver was arrested, and the victims were taken to a medical facility for treatment.
SP Abiodun also reported that on July 4, 2025, at about 4:30 pm, another group comprising five women and six children was intercepted in Agwara while attempting to cross a river into Yauri.
The Divisional Police Officer in Agwara took custody of the victims. Two magazines and sixty rounds of live ammunition were recovered during the operation.
He added that investigations are ongoing, with efforts underway to rescue more victims and apprehend additional suspects.
“The Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, commended the joint security teams for their efforts in successfully rescuing the victims,” the statement said.
“He urged the public to provide actionable information to aid in the rescue of other victims.”
