The Kaduna State Police Command says it has dismantled a kidnappers’ camp in Ikara Local Government Area, rescued two victims, and neutralised two suspected kidnappers during a clearance operation.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammad Rabiu, disclosed this in a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.
According to the statement, the operation was carried out on September 8, 2026, at about 10:00am by the Divisional Police Officer, Ikara, who led a team of police operatives in collaboration with members of the Vigilante Service and the Civilian Joint Task Force, CJTF.
The team acted on credible information about the presence of suspected kidnappers operating around Auchanawa and Wambai areas of Ikara LGA.
“Upon arrival at the identified location, the security team engaged the criminals in a gun duel. The operatives successfully cleared the surrounding bushes and dismantled the kidnappers’ camp,” the statement said.
During the encounter, two kidnapped victims were rescued unhurt. Two suspected kidnappers were also neutralised, while several others reportedly fled into the surrounding bushes with possible gunshot wounds.
However, the operation came at a cost.
“Unfortunately, three members of the CJTF lost their lives during the operation, while two Police officers sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving medical attention,” the statement added.
CP Rabiu extended condolences to the families of the fallen CJTF members and wished the injured officers a speedy recovery.
He also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to the Police, assuring that clearance operations would continue “until these criminals are completely dislodged from their hideouts.”
“The Command remains resolute in its determination to protect lives and property and restore lasting peace and security across the State,” the CP said.
Security agencies in Kaduna have intensified clearance operations in frontline LGAs in recent months as part of efforts to curb kidnapping and banditry in the state.
