Police Rescue 25 Kidnapped Victims in Zamfara: Women & Children Freed After Bandit Attack in Gusau LGA

A terrifying night for residents of Kuraje village in the Damba area of Gusau Local Government Area, Zamfara State, ended in relief after a swift and coordinated response by security forces led to the rescue of 25 abducted residents, including 10 women and 15 children.

The incident, which initially sent shockwaves of panic across the state, highlights the persistent threat of banditry but also the increasing effectiveness of joint security operations.

The Abduction and Swift Response
The attack occurred around 9:45 p.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, when a large group of armed bandits stormed Kuraje village. They fired shots indiscriminately before managing to abduct the women and children.

However, the criminals’ escape was short-lived.

• Distress Call: Upon receiving the distress call, the Zamfara State Police Command immediately mobilised a joint operation team.
• Joint Operation: The team comprised operatives from the Damba Division, the Department of Operations Gusau, and the state’s Community Protection Guards (CPG).
• Confrontation and Rescue: The security personnel rapidly pursued the fleeing bandits and engaged them in a strategic gun battle, forcing the criminals to abandon their captives.

All 25 kidnapped victims—10 women and 15 children—were successfully rescued unhurt.

Community Safety and Security Commitments

The rescued victims were immediately relocated to Sabongari Damba for safety, profiling, and subsequent reunification with their families.

The swift and successful operation has been hailed by the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba, who commended the officers’ professionalism and gallantry.

This event underscores the relentless battle against insecurity in Zamfara State. The use of key keywords like banditry, kidnapping, Gusau LGA, Zamfara security, and Police rescue helps to bring the focus on this critical issue.

The Command has reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Zamfara State by sustaining its operational tempo against criminal elements.