The police in Zamfara State on Tuesday said nine travellers were abducted along the Sokoto-Gusau road on Sunday, and not 60 as had been widely reported.
Police spokesperson in Zamfara, Muhammad Shehu, stated this in a press statement on Tuesday.
“On Sunday 25th July 2021, a large number of armed bandits blocked a Toyota Bus Vehicle belonging to Sokoto State Mass Transit and abducted eleven (11) passengers who were travelling from Sokoto – Abuja along Sokoto – Gusau Road in Bakura LGA.
“Police Tactical operatives attached to Operation Restore Peace were alerted, and they quickly mobilized to the location and dislodged the hoodlums who blocked many vehicles for abduction.
“The road was instantly cleared for motorists and other road users and reinforced by more police operatives to improve the security and safety of the commuters.
“In the course of mopping up the scene, a Toyota Bus Vehicle belonging to Sokoto State Mass Transit was sighted empty and it was revealed that eleven (11) passengers including the driver were abducted and taken to the bush before the arrival of the Police.
“The Operatives further embarked on search and rescue operation in the surrounding bush with a view to rescuing the kidnapped victims. Two (2) persons who were left far behind with other hoodlums were abandoned by their captors for fear of being neutralised by the Police operatives, the remaining nine (9) victims were taken to the forest. The Command is currently employing various search and rescue strategies aimed at rescuing the victims safely.
“In view of the above, the Command enjoined members of the public to discountenance the abduction of 60 people. On the other hand, members of the press are urged to always verify the authenticity of any information that comes their way before going to the public.”
