Reports from Prime 9ja Online reveal that suspected gunmen stormed the Balma and Mai Anguwan Bakutunbe communities in the Ningi Local Government Area of Bauchi State over the weekend, resulting in the abduction of three individuals. Tragically, one of the victims was shot dead, while the two traditional rulers remain in captivity.
The incident unfolded in the early hours of Sunday, leaving the communities shaken and in distress. Ibrahim Zubairu, the Acting Chairman of Ningi Local Government, provided a harrowing account of the kidnappings. According to Zubairu, the ruler of Balma was seized from his palace while in the company of others. The armed assailants, numbering approximately three, forcefully took him away, leaving the community in shock and fear.
In another unfortunate turn of events, Alh Haruna Dan OC, one of the victims, was riding his motorcycle home when he was suddenly ambushed and shot by the abductors. The ruthless act highlights the grave danger faced by the residents of Bauchi State and the urgent need for swift action.
Confirming the incident, SP Mohammed Wakil, the spokesperson for the Bauchi State Police Command, assured the public that a rescue operation was underway. Wakil emphasized the commitment of the police force to combing through the surrounding areas, including bushes and creeks, in a tireless effort to secure the safe release of the abducted traditional rulers. He stated, "Presently, the police in Ningi Division are combing the bush trying to see how they can rescue the two abducted village heads alive."
Further details provided by the police shed light on the sequence of events. The gunmen unleashed sporadic gunfire before seizing Alh Hussaini Saleh, a 48-year-old village head, and whisking him away to an undisclosed location. The second village head was also abducted, leaving the community deeply unsettled and anxious for their safe return.
Amid the chaos, one glimmer of hope emerged as Haruna Jibrin, who sustained a gunshot wound to the head, was rescued by a team of dedicated policemen. The distressed community promptly alerted the police, prompting an immediate response. Jibrin was swiftly transported to the General Hospital in Ningi for medical treatment. Tragically, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.
The abductions and tragic loss of life have sent shockwaves through Bauchi State, with residents grappling with fear and uncertainty. The police authorities have vowed to intensify their rescue efforts, demonstrating a resolute commitment to ensuring the safe return of the remaining hostages. The families of the abducted traditional rulers anxiously await news of their loved ones' freedom, hoping for a swift resolution to this distressing ordeal.
As the Bauchi State Police Command mobilizes its resources and expertise, the community rallies together in solidarity, praying for the safe release of their revered leaders. The security situation in the state remains a top priority, with efforts focused on apprehending the perpetrators and bringing them to justice. The people of Bauchi State and beyond eagerly anticipate a positive outcome and a return to peace and tranquility in the region.