The Kano State Police Command has rescued nine passengers following an attack by suspected bandits on a commercial bus along the Jos–Kano highway in Doguwa Local Government Area of the state.
The attack occurred on Saturday at about 5:30 p.m. at the Folgore Forest axis between Gate Two Safer Highway and Dogo Dutse, according to a statement issued on Sunday by the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa.
The police said a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number BKK 6824 XA, travelling from Jos to Kano, was intercepted by five armed men wielding machetes and a firearm.
The assailants reportedly blocked the highway, attacked the vehicle and abducted 13 of the 20 passengers on board.
Following a distress call, the Divisional Police Officer of Doguwa Division mobilised tactical operatives to the scene, where they engaged the attackers in a gun duel.
The police said the operation led to the rescue of nine abducted passengers, while another male victim later escaped from captivity.
However, three victims—one man and two women—are still being held by the kidnappers.
The rescued passengers were taken to Doguwa General Hospital for medical evaluation and are receiving treatment. The police said they are in stable condition.
The Command said it has deployed additional tactical teams and intensified intelligence-led operations to secure the release of the remaining captives and arrest the fleeing suspects.
Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Adamu Bakori commended residents and motorists whose timely information aided the swift response, assuring the public that the Command remains committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
He urged residents to continue providing credible information on suspicious activities to security agencies, adding that investigations into the incident are ongoing.
(The Whistler)