Security operatives have rescued 18 people from armed bandits during an operation in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The victims, comprising 14 females and four males, including children and toddlers, were reportedly abandoned by the bandits after security forces blocked their escape route.
The operation involved personnel of the military and Department of State Services (DSS), alongside local vigilantes, following intelligence on the planned abduction.
Traditional rulers in Bakori, in a statement, commended the security personnel and vigilantes for their intervention, saying the operation prevented the bandits from carrying out the planned attack.
According to the statement, at least seven of the fleeing bandits were reportedly injured during the operation.
A 14-year-old victim rescued from the attackers also sustained a gunshot wound and is currently receiving medical treatment.
The latest operation comes less than two weeks after security forces reportedly foiled another mass abduction attempt at Gidan Iyado, also in Bakori Local Government Area.
During that operation, 18 bandits were reportedly killed, according to the traditional rulers.
The latest development underscores the continued security operations in parts of Katsina State amid efforts by authorities and local security groups to prevent attacks and protect residents from abduction.
