Security operatives in Sokoto State successfully liberated two captive individuals during a security operation that resulted in the complete dismantlement of criminal hideouts located within the Yabo Local Government Area.
The operation was carried out in the early hours of November 9, 2026, at Dan Tafki village and surrounding hills opposite Binji Musa in Yabo LGA.
The police said the operation was led by the Commander of 7PMF, with personnel from the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), Anti-Kidnapping Unit and Yabo Division.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufai, said the operation was launched following credible intelligence about the presence of armed bandits and their captives in the area.
He said the operatives came under attack on arrival, leading to a gun duel that lasted several hours before the bandits were overpowered and fled, abandoning their captives.
The police said the operatives rescued two victims, identified as Nafisa Abubakar and Aminu Sahabi, both from Dono village, adding that they were evacuated to a hospital for medical attention and psychological support.
The statement added that the security team also burnt down silos and several hideouts used by the bandits during the operation.
The Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, commended the operatives for their bravery and coordination, assuring residents that security agencies would sustain intelligence-driven operations against banditry and kidnapping.
The police said a follow-up operation had commenced to track down the fleeing bandits and dismantle their remaining criminal infrastructure.
They urged residents and community leaders to provide credible information to security agencies and report suspicious movements to the nearest security post.
What You Should Know
Security forces in Sokoto State carried out a successful raid on bandit hideouts in Yabo Local Government Area, resulting in the rescue of two kidnapped victims, Nafisa Abubakar and Aminu Sahabi, who have since been taken to the hospital for medical care.
- Positive Impact: The successful operation brings relief and safety to local communities, demonstrating the proactive stance of law enforcement against kidnapping and banditry in the region.
- Potential Concerns: Fleeing bandits pose an ongoing risk to neighboring communities until the police conclude their follow-up tracking operations, highlighting the persistent threat of insecurity in rural areas.
