Nigerian soldiers have successfully rescued seven individuals from the clutches of armed bandits in a daring operation in Yankamaye Cikin Gari village, Kano State. Troops from Operation MESA under the 3 Brigade of the Nigerian Army swiftly intervened following a distress call, showcasing their commitment to public safety.

According to a statement from Capt. Babatunde Zubairu, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 3 Brigade, the attack occurred late at night, when a horde of bandits descended upon the peaceful village, abducting ten residents and tragically taking the life of a 60-year-old woman. 

The swift response from a joint team of soldiers and police operatives is commendable, as they pursued the fleeing bandits with relentless firepower. Their decisive action led to the rescue of seven victims, while the bandits reportedly fled towards Katsina State, evading capture for now. The brave men and women of the 3 Brigade have earned commendations for their professionalism and rapid response, but questions remain about the overall security situation in the area.

In a related and equally alarming incident, reports have surfaced of another kidnapping in the same region, where criminals abducted ten individuals from the Biresawa and Tsundu communities. A local resident, Kabiru Usman, recounted a harrowing attack around 10:00 p.m., where bandits armed with weapons invaded his village, taking his wife, daughter, and other family members hostage.

Usman’s chilling account underscores the growing threat of banditry, as community members found themselves powerless against the armed assailants. Despite prior warnings about the impending attack and alerts to the police and military, the local populace was overwhelmed as bandits wielded superior firepower. “We tried to stop them, but our weapons were no match for them,” Usman lamented, highlighting the frustration felt by many in the community.

Kano police spokesman Abdullahi Kiyawa has promised to follow up on these alarming reports, but residents remain anxious about their safety. As banditry continues to surge in the area, the urgent need for enhanced security measures has never been clearer. Local communities are urged to remain vigilant and proactive in their communications with security agencies to combat the escalating violence.