By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Suspected bandits abducted seven students of the Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda, in Zamfara State on Tuesday night after invading their off-campus residence on the outskirts of the Low-Cost area of Kaura Namoda town. The attackers stormed the house and whisked away the students, prompting security agencies to launch rescue operations. One victim later escaped, while six others remain in captivity.
One Student Escapes Captivity
A student of the institution, Ibrahim Ahmad, confirmed that one of the abducted students escaped shortly after the incident.
The escapee regained freedom, but three male and three female students remain with their captors.
The development has heightened fears among students and residents of the community.
Police Confirm Abduction
The Zamfara State Police Command confirmed the incident and assured residents that security operatives were working to rescue the victims.
The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said the attack occurred at the students’ residence located outside the campus.
“The incident occurred, and security operatives are currently carrying out rescue operations to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped students,” Abubakar said.
How the Attack Happened
Abubakar explained that the institution itself remains secure and has not suffered any security breach.
According to him, security personnel adequately protect the school premises, making it difficult for bandits to gain access.
He stated that one of the students reportedly stepped outside during the night to relieve himself and accidentally left the door open.
“One of the students went outside during the night, claiming he wanted to urinate. In the process, he left the door open. Coincidentally, bandits passing through the area entered the house and abducted the students,” he said.
Security Forces Launch Rescue Mission
The police spokesperson disclosed that operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) have joined troops of Operation Fansan Yamma in a coordinated rescue effort.
He expressed confidence that security forces would secure the students’ release and apprehend the perpetrators.
“Our VCRU personnel, together with troops of Operation Fansan Yamma, are working to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted students,” Abubakar added.
Local Government Chairman Reacts
The Chairman of Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, Hon. Mannir Haidara Kaura, also confirmed the incident.
He said security agencies had already intensified operations to secure the victims’ freedom.
According to him, rescue efforts remain ongoing.
Residents Raise Security Concerns
Meanwhile, the Concerned Citizens of Kaura Namoda expressed concern over the worsening security situation in the area.
The group alleged that notorious bandit leader Kachalla Bello Dansadiya and his gang continue to terrorise communities around Kaura Namoda.
In a statement, the group recalled several previous abductions, including the kidnapping of two senior lecturers who reportedly spent more than two months in captivity despite ransom payments.
The group also referenced the abduction of three residents and a district head who was kidnapped near a military base.
“Alarmingly, all these victims are reportedly still being held in a well-known bandit camp around Dajin Yamma, yet no rescue operations have taken place. Where are the fighter jets and armoured vehicles?” the group queried.
Growing Insecurity in Kaura Namoda
The latest abduction has renewed concerns about rising bandit attacks and kidnappings in Kaura Namoda and nearby communities.
Residents have called for stronger security measures to protect lives and property and curb the activities of criminal groups operating in the area.
