Abubakar Aliyu, the police spokesperson in Katsina, told journalists on Tuesday that the passengers were abducted on May 19 at the Unguwar-Basau on Funtua-Gusau road.

“On May 19, 2025, about 9:37 p.m., a distress call was received at Faskari divisional police headquarters that some suspected armed bandits attacked passengers in two vehicles at Unguwar-Basau on Funtua-Gusau road,” he said.

“The vehicles attacked were a Hummer bus with registration number: T0510 KN and a white Mendez truck, LFA 508 YR.

“Upon receipt of the report, the armoured personnel carrier (APC) patrol team promptly responded to the scene and engaged the bandits in a gun battle, where the assailants were overpowered due to superior tactics and firepower.

“All five kidnapped victims, including two drivers and three passengers, were successfully rescued.”

The police spokesperson said four victims, who sustained injuries, were rushed to Sheme Primary Health Centre (PHC) for immediate medical attention.

He said Bello Shehu, the commissioner of police, commended the operatives for their bravery and swift response and charged them to sustain efforts in the fight against banditry in the state.