JTF foils kidnap gang, recover loot in Kano

Troops of the Joint Task Force Faruruwa carried out a successful security operation along the Kano–Katsina border in the early hours of Sunday, leading to the rescue of an abducted man and the recovery of stolen motorcycles.

According to Maj. Zubair Babatunde, the Army Public Relations Officer for the 3 Brigade Nigerian Army in Kano, the operation was launched after the military received credible intelligence at about 1:00 a.m. about armed bandits moving from the Daurawa and Kira areas in Katsina State toward Kano.

Troops operating from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Yankwada quickly mobilised and engaged the suspected bandits at Ungwan Dogo/Ungwan Tudu.

In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, the bandits were overwhelmed and forced to flee toward Matazu Local Government Area in Katsina State.

During the operation, the soldiers rescued 38-year-old Rabiu Alhaji Halilu, who had been kidnapped and sustained a gunshot wound to his leg while in captivity.

He was immediately taken to the JTF Faruruwa Medical Centre and is receiving treatment.

The troops also recovered three motorcycles abandoned by the fleeing bandits, along with several head of cattle believed to have been rustled.

Babatunde said the military has increased patrols in the area to sustain security and prevent further criminal activity.