NIGER STATE, 30 July 2025 — Thirty-five women and children who were rescued from bandits in Niger State have been reunited with their families after weeks in protective custody.
The group—made up of 16 women and 19 children—were taken from different communities across the state, including Kagara, Tegina and Agwara. Following their rescue, they were placed under the care of the Niger State Police Command for protection and support.
According to police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun, the victims were formally handed over on Tuesday to the Chairman of Rafi Local Government Area, Ayuba Usman Katako. During the brief ceremony, the Commissioner of Police, Adamu Elleman, said the victims had received food, shelter and counselling services during their time in custody.
He explained that the operation began on 3 July 2025, following intelligence reports that victims were being moved from Birnin-Gwari to other locations. Police officers responded swiftly and intercepted the first group in Agwara as they attempted to cross the river to neighbouring villages. Five women and six children were rescued in that effort.
Further investigations revealed that bandits were relocating people from Birnin-Gwari. A second group—including four women and seven children—was intercepted by a police tactical team on the Mekujeri–Tegina Road. Another batch was stopped while being transported by a driver, identified as Yusuf Abdullahi of Birnin-Gwari. He is currently under investigation by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to determine his involvement.
The Commissioner noted that all rescued persons received counselling and deradicalisation support during their time in protective custody. The reunion marks a significant step in restoring hope and safety to affected families across Niger State.
0 Comments