The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has pledged sustained and intensified operations against armed bandits responsible for the latest abductions in Kebbi State, assuring residents that the Nigeria Police Force will maintain pressure on criminal networks until all kidnapped victims are safely rescued.
The IGP’s assurance follows a recent wave of kidnappings in rural communities across the state, where armed men reportedly invaded settlements, abducting several residents and forcing others to flee. The renewed attacks have heightened fears among locals, many of whom say insecurity has disrupted farming, trading, and daily activities across parts of Kebbi.
According to police authorities, tactical units including the Police Mobile Force (PMF), Anti-Kidnapping Squad, and Intelligence Response Team (IRT) have been deployed to strategic locations linked to bandit movement.
Security sources disclosed that air surveillance support from sister agencies is aiding intelligence gathering for ground officers. Patrol teams have been stationed in vulnerable communities to deter further attacks, while special detectives are profiling suspects arrested during early raids.
Residents say the presence of security operatives has provided some relief, but many insist the operations must be sustained beyond the immediate crisis to prevent future incidents.
In a message delivered during a security briefing with state officials, the IGP emphasized that the police will not relent until stability returns to the affected communities.
“Our operations will not stop at rescuing victims. We are targeting the root of the criminal networks, blocking their supply lines, and dismantling their camps. This is a sustained operation, not a one-off intervention,” the IGP said.
He urged locals to maintain cooperation with security agencies and report suspicious movements promptly, stressing that community intelligence remains a powerful tool in combating banditry.
The Kebbi State Government has also expressed confidence in the ongoing operations, noting that collaboration between police formations, traditional institutions, and community vigilantes is yielding positive results.
Officials confirmed that security meetings have been held with district heads, who provided updates on vulnerable areas, routes used by attackers, and locations requiring immediate reinforcement.
Sources within the government disclosed that relief arrangements are underway for families displaced by the recent attacks.
Security analysts warn that the recurring abductions threaten the state’s agricultural output, particularly in areas known for rice farming and livestock production. Many farmers have temporarily abandoned their farmlands due to fear of attacks.
Community leaders insist that restoring security is critical to saving the state’s farming season and preventing food shortages.
The police assured residents that suspects already arrested during the operations are undergoing interrogation and will be prosecuted once investigations are complete.
Authorities also promised to publish updates as rescue efforts progress.
