Coordinated Bandit Attacks Rock Gombe Communities, Leaving Trail of Death and Abduction
In a series of devastating raids, suspected armed bandits have targeted three communities within the Pindiga District of Akko Local Government Area in Gombe State, resulting in the tragic death of an elderly man and the abduction of multiple individuals, including his own sons. The Gombe State Police Command has confirmed these harrowing incidents, which unfolded over the weekend, highlighting the persistent security challenges facing rural areas in Nigeria.
Details of the Violent Incidents Across Multiple Villages
According to a detailed statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, on Sunday, January 25, 2026, the bandits first struck in the early hours of Saturday, January 24. They invaded Rahama village, where they mercilessly shot and killed 70-year-old Tela Bello Ahmadu. In a cruel twist, the attackers then abducted his two sons, Saleh Tela, aged 25, and Abdullahi Tela, aged 35, adding to the family's anguish.
The same group of bandits proceeded to Lambo village, where they kidnapped three more victims: Babayo Garba, 30; Malam Abba Musa, 45; and Baayo Bayi, 20. Additionally, it was reported that the bandits set fire to several houses in Galadima village during their rampage, further compounding the destruction and fear among residents.
Police Response and Intense Gun Battle
Upon receiving distress calls, the Gombe State Police Command swiftly mobilized its Tactical Teams under Operation Hattara. In collaboration with local hunters and vigilante groups, security operatives engaged the bandits in a fierce gun duel. This rapid response underscores the critical role of community-police partnerships in combating such threats.
During the operation, one of the abducted victims, Baayo Bayi, was unfortunately caught in the crossfire and later confirmed dead. However, the joint efforts led to the successful rescue of two other victims, Babayo Garba and Malam Abba Musa, who were taken to a hospital for medical examination and care.
Significant Recoveries and Ongoing Manhunt
The security forces neutralized three of the bandits during the confrontation, while others managed to escape into the forest, suspected to have sustained gunshot injuries. In a significant haul, exhibits recovered from the scene include two AK-47 rifles, four magazines, sixty-eight rounds of live 7.62mm ammunition, one hundred and twenty empty ammunition shells, four motorcycles, and a cash sum of two thousand three hundred Naira.
The Commissioner of Police for Gombe State Command, CP Umar Ahmed Chuso, has reassured the public of the command's unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state. He urged continued support from citizens, emphasizing the importance of providing timely and credible information to the police to enhance security operations.
Efforts are being intensified to arrest the fleeing suspects, with further developments promised to be communicated in due course. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing banditry crisis in parts of Nigeria, calling for sustained vigilance and collaborative security measures.
