The Kaduna State Police Command has rescued 10 kidnapped victims, including women and children, from a forest near Rijana community in Kagarko Local Government Area of the state.
The victims were reportedly abducted in May 2025 when about 14 armed men invaded Kushe Makaranta village in the same local government area and whisked them away to the forest hideout.
Police spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the rescue in a statement, saying the operation was carried out through a joint effort by the police, military, and Department of State Services (DSS).
He said sustained pressure, surveillance, and coordinated operations by the security agencies forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives and flee.
“Following the abduction in May, the Command immediately launched a manhunt for the perpetrators,” Hassan explained. “The combined pressure from our operatives, the military, and the DSS forced the kidnappers to desert their camp and release the victims.”
Those rescued include Helen Abraham (25), Rosemary Elisha (25), Jummai Istifanus (23), Hauwa’u Sule (13), Mary Sunday (12), Kelvin Abraham (3), Devine Elisha (1), Jeremiah Istifanus (1), Christabeth Abraham (9 months), and Hauwa Sulaiman (13).
Hassan said the victims, all residents of Kushe Makaranta, were taken to the Police Clinic for medical examination and observation. After receiving treatment, they were reunited with their families.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, commended the joint security team for their professionalism and bravery during the operation.
He assured residents that the Command remains steadfast in its commitment to protect lives and property, and will continue to intensify efforts to stamp out banditry and kidnapping across Kaduna State.
