The Niger State Police Command has announced the rescue of 35 kidnapped victims, including women and children, from the hands of suspected bandits in a series of coordinated operations.

According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, the victims were intercepted while being transported to Yauri in Kebbi State, where they were allegedly to be handed over to other members of the criminal network.

The victims were originally abducted from various locations across Niger State, including Pandogari, Madaka, Allawa, and Sarkin-Pawa, as well as other regions such as Taraba State.

In a statement issued on Sunday, SP Abiodun revealed that between July 3 and 5, 2025, police tactical teams stationed along the Madaka–Makujeri road intercepted a vehicle driven by Yusuf Abdullahi from Birnin Gwari. The vehicle was carrying 24 kidnapped victims en route to Yauri. Some victims had earlier been dropped off in Tegina to continue the journey in another vehicle.

The driver was immediately arrested, and the rescued victims were taken to a medical facility for treatment and care.

He also called on members of the public to assist the police with credible and actionable information to support further rescue efforts and security operations.