Kano: Police foil kidnap attempt, rescue traditional ruler

A coordinated response by the police and residents has thwarted a kidnap operation in Garun Mallam Town, Kano State, with the abducted Sarkin Noman Kano, Alhaji Yusif Nadabo, rescued unhurt.

The attack occurred late Saturday night when suspected bandits invaded the community and began shooting sporadically, causing residents to raise the alarm.

According to the Kano State Police Command, the assailants seized Nadabo during the operation and shot three residents — Yusif Nasiru, 20, Salisu Garba and Ibrahim Hassan.

The Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said the command received a distress call at about 11:30 p.m. on August 29 and immediately mobilised tactical and patrol teams to the area.

Personnel from neighbouring police divisions also joined the operation, while community members assisted in tracking the attackers as they attempted to escape with their captive.

The combined pressure reportedly forced the kidnappers to abandon Nadabo and flee before security operatives could apprehend them.

“Alhaji Yusif Nadabo was rescued unhurt,” the police said.

The three residents who sustained gunshot injuries were taken to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital alongside the rescued traditional ruler for medical attention.

The command said it had subsequently increased patrols and security presence around Garun Mallam and surrounding communities as part of measures to prevent another attack.

A manhunt is also underway for the suspects, while detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, praised the officers involved in the operation and commended residents for responding quickly and cooperating with security personnel.

He particularly acknowledged members of the Vigilante and Neighbourhood Watch Corps, whose local knowledge and support, according to him, contributed to the successful rescue.

Bakori appealed to residents to remain calm and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the authorities.

He assured the people of Kano that the command would sustain patrols and other security operations aimed at preventing attacks and safeguarding communities across the state.