The operation was carried out on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected kidnappers around the Auchanawa and Wambai areas of the local government.
This was revealed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Kaduna State Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammad Rabiu.
According to the statement, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ikara led the joint security team to the identified locations, where they encountered the suspected kidnappers and engaged them in a gun battle.
The security operatives subsequently cleared the surrounding bushes and dismantled the criminals’ hideout, rescuing two kidnapped victims unhurt.
Two suspected kidnappers were neutralised during the confrontation, while several others reportedly escaped into the surrounding bushes, some possibly sustaining gunshot wounds.
However, three CJTF members were killed during the operation, while two police officers sustained gunshot injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.
The Commissioner of Police expressed condolences to the families of the fallen CJTF members and wished the injured officers a speedy recovery.
He also urged residents to continue providing the Police with timely and credible information on the activities of criminal elements in their communities.
The CP assured the public that the Command would sustain its clearance operations until criminal elements are completely dislodged from their hideouts, stressing its commitment to protecting lives and property and restoring lasting peace and security across Kaduna State.
