The police command in Katsina says it has foiled simultaneous attacks on three quarters in Jibia Township, Jibia Local Government Area of the state and rescued 21 abducted victims.

ASP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, the command’s spokesman, who disclosed this in a statement in Katsina on Friday, said the efforts were in collaboration with the army, members of the State Community Watch Corps, and Vigilantes.

He said: “In a swift and coordinated response, we successfully foiled simultaneous bandits’ attacks at Ka’ida, Unguwar One Boy, and Danmarke quarters in Jibia Township, Katsina State, on Nov. 7.

“At about 9:15 p.m. on Thursday, suspected armed bandits launched coordinated attacks on the two communities.

“However, the swift response of the joint security team led by the DPO Jibia repelled the attackers, resulting in a fierce gun duel that lasted for over an hour.

“The superior firepower and tactical advantage of the joint security team eventually forced the bandits to retreat with unspecified casualties as the operation resulted in the successful rescue of 16 victims trapped by the bandits.”

Mr Sadiq-Aliyu regrettably said that another five persons rescued sustained gunshot injuries as a result of the bandits’ attack, and they were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

The police spokesman added that: “Sadly, one member of the state’s security outfit, and a vigilante member lost their lives during the encounter, paying the ultimate price,” he said.

The spokesmen assured that further development would be communicated in due course.

“The command, in collaboration with sister security agencies, while working closely with all relevant stakeholders, is intensifying efforts to ensure the arrest of the perpetrators of this dastardly act.”

“The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Aliyu Abubakar-Musa reassures the public of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state,” Mr Sadiq-Aliyu said.

He urged the citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or call the command’s emergency numbers: 0815 967 7777, and 0707 272 2539.

 (NAN)