Troops gun down suspected kidnapper, free abducted victim

Troops from the 33 Artillery Brigade, operating under Operation Lafiyan Jama’a, have successfully rescued a kidnapped victim and killed one suspected kidnapper during a clearance mission in Mbulu community, located in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

Security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, reported on Friday that the operation was launched in response to a distress call received around 6:40 p.m. on June 19. The call followed credible intelligence indicating the presence of a kidnapping syndicate in the area.

Sources said one of the suspected kidnappers was apprehended while trying to buy food supplies at a local market.

“Following preliminary interrogation, the suspect led troops to the criminal hideout,” Makama stated.

Upon reaching the location, the troops came under fire from the rest of the gang, prompting an immediate exchange of gunfire.
“In the exchange of fire, one kidnapper was neutralised while the others fled into the surrounding bush,” he added.

During the operation, one victim was rescued. Troops also recovered a fabricated AK-47 rifle and a locally made Dane gun during a subsequent sweep of the area.

The rescued individual is currently being debriefed and will be reunited with his family. Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects.