The Kano State Police Command has rescued 10 passengers abducted by suspected bandits along the Jos-Kano highway in Doguwa Local Government Area, while security operatives continue efforts to secure the release of three remaining victims.

According to a report by Channels Television, the attack occurred at about 5:30pm on Sunday, July 26, along the Folgore Forest axis between Gate Two Safer Highway and Dogo Dutse.

Police spokesperson Abdullahi Kiyawa said a Toyota Hiace bus, bearing registration number BKK 6824 XA, travelling from Jos to Kano, was intercepted by five armed men carrying machetes and a firearm.

The attackers reportedly blocked the highway, assaulted the vehicle and abducted 13 of the 20 passengers on board.

Kiyawa said the Divisional Police Officer of Doguwa Division received a distress call and immediately deployed tactical operatives to the scene. The officers engaged the suspected kidnappers in a gun battle, forcing them to flee.

“As a result of the swift and coordinated response of the Police team, nine victims were successfully rescued, while another male victim later escaped from captivity,” the police spokesman said.

The 10 rescued victims were taken to Doguwa General Hospital for medical evaluation and are reported to be in stable condition.

The command said additional tactical teams have been deployed, while intelligence-led operations are ongoing to rescue the remaining three victims and apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Kano State Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Bakori commended residents for providing timely information that supported the rescue operation. He urged members of the public to continue reporting suspicious activities through the nearest police station or the command’s emergency lines.

The police added that investigations into the incident are continuing and further updates will be provided as operations progress.