The police command in Kaduna said its operatives have rescued 23 kidnapped victims in joint operations with the military.

The command spokesperson, Mansir Hassan, confirmed the development in a statement on Sunday.

Mr Hassan said that Security operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer of Kajuru Division and military personnel on Sunday, acting on credible intelligence regarding the movement of bandits in the Kajuru area, rescued the victims.

He added that the joint operatives advanced into the bush near Doka Village in Kajuru LGA, where they encountered a gang of armed bandits trying to relocate with their victims to Kajuru Forest.

He explained that during the encounter, security forces overpowered the bandits, forcing them to retreat and flee into the forest with gunshot wounds, which resulted in the rescue of 23 victims, who had earlier been reported being kidnapped in Kauru LGA.

“The victims have been safely reunited with their families,” the police spokesperson said.

He added that the area had been under surveillance and patrols to prevent further criminal activities.

Police commissioner Rabiu Muhammad assured the public that the command remained committed to ensuring the safety and security of residents.

He said the command would continue to work in line with the ideals, vision and mission of Governor Uba Sani on the security of the state and in collaboration with military and other security agencies to combat crime and maintain peace across the state.

(NAN)