‎10 kidnap victims rescued after gun battle between security forces, bandits in Niger

Minna, Niger State, Nigeria — A joint security operation has successfully freed 10 kidnapped victims following a gun battle between security forces and suspected bandits in the state, police confirmed on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
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‎According to the Niger State Police Command, the encounter took place on Sunday morning at Mai‑Laka village in Mariga Local Government Area, along the Bangi‑Kotonkoro road. Officers and allied forces intercepted a group believed to be kidnappers and engaged them in a fierce exchange of gunfire.
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‎During the clash, the kidnappers reportedly abandoned their captives and fled the scene, paving the way for the rescue of about 10 victims. Those freed were from Yauri, Dusai, Dogon‑Fadama and Yabawa villages, police said.
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‎In addition to recovering the abductees, security personnel also retrieved several motorcycles believed to belong to the fleeing bandits.
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‎Efforts to pursue the suspects and secure the surrounding area are ongoing, with intensified clearance and monitoring operations aimed at fully rid the region of criminal elements.
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‎The police described the outcome as a significant breakthrough in the state’s fight against kidnapping and banditry, a persistent security challenge in parts of northern Nigeria.