By Daily Review Online
A police-led rescue operation in Kaduna State freed nine kidnapped farmers from bandits, but ended in tragedy when two officers were killed in an ambush while returning from the mission.
The Kaduna State Police Command said the victims were rescued during a swift response to reports that armed bandits had invaded farmlands near Unguwan Sa’idu Village in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area and abducted several residents.
Police spokesman, DSP Mansir Hassan, said intelligence reports indicated that about 15 armed bandits operating on motorcycles were holding the victims captive.
Following the alert, the Area Commander in Birnin Gwari, the Divisional Police Officer and personnel of the Police Mobile Force, supported by operatives of the Kaduna Vigilante Service, launched a rescue operation.
The security team reportedly confronted the bandits in a gun battle, forcing them to retreat into the bush.
Faced with sustained pressure from the security operatives, the fleeing bandits abandoned their captives, who were later found tied with ropes.
The nine victims were rescued unharmed and reunited with their families.
However, the operation took a tragic turn after the rescue. According to the police, suspected bandits ambushed officers on their return journey, fatally shooting two policemen.
The deceased officers were described as having paid the ultimate price in the line of duty while protecting lives and property.
Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, expressed condolences to the families of the fallen officers, describing their deaths as a reflection of the courage and sacrifice security personnel make daily in the fight against crime.
He said efforts were ongoing to track down those responsible for the attack and bring them to justice.
The incident highlights both the gains and human cost of ongoing security operations in Birnin Gwari, one of Kaduna’s most troubled areas, where security forces continue to battle kidnapping and banditry.