By Our Correspondent

National News – The Katsina State Police Command has foiled separate bandit attacks in Kankara and Malumfashi Local Government Areas, rescuing 11 kidnapped passengers and recovering 25 stolen cows during coordinated security operations on Monday night.

The police confirmed that the incidents happened on May 18, 2026, after armed bandits blocked the Sheme-Kankara Road near Kakumi Village in Kankara LGA.

According to the command, the attackers intercepted a Toyota Hiace bus carrying 11 passengers travelling to Kano and abducted all the occupants.

Police operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer in Kankara quickly responded after receiving a distress call at about 8:45 p.m.

A gun battle reportedly followed between the officers and the armed bandits.

The suspects later fled into nearby bushes after they were overpowered by the police team.

Authorities said all 11 victims were rescued unharmed during the operation.

Security operatives have continued bush-combing efforts in the area to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects linked to the kidnapping attempt.

In a separate operation around 8:50 p.m., suspected bandits attacked Badawa Village in Malumfashi LGA and rustled 25 cows from local residents.

Police patrol teams swiftly moved to intercept the criminals along a suspected escape route on the outskirts of the community.

Following another exchange of gunfire, the attackers abandoned the stolen cattle and escaped.

The police recovered all 25 cows and returned them to their rightful owners while surveillance and patrol operations were reinforced across the affected communities.

The Commissioner of Police in Katsina State, Ali Umar Fage, commended the officers involved for their swift response, professionalism, and bravery during the rescue mission.

He also urged residents to continue sharing credible intelligence that could help security agencies fight kidnapping, cattle rustling, and banditry across the state.