The Zamfara State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of two abducted persons and the killing of one suspected bandit during a gun battle in Talata Mafara Local Government Area.

A statement issued on Tuesday by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said the operation took place on Sunday at about 2:30pm.

According to the command, a joint team of police tactical operatives, members of the Community Protection Guard and the Civilian Joint Task Force intercepted a group of armed men on five motorcycles in Tashar Lawali Village, Kagara District.

The bandits were moving with kidnapped victims when they sighted the security team and opened fire.

“The team immediately responded with superior firepower, successfully repelling the attack and forcing the criminals to retreat,” the statement said.

During the exchange, one bandit was shot dead. An AK-47 rifle and a magazine were recovered from him. Two captives were freed unhurt. Other members of the gang escaped into nearby bushes with gunshot wounds.

The police said no security personnel was injured in the encounter.

The Command noted that efforts are ongoing to track the fleeing suspects, rescue more victims and recover more weapons.

Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Bello, praised the joint team for their “courage, resilience, and prompt response.”

He assured residents that the command would continue with intelligence-driven and coordinated operations to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace in the state.