Gombe Police Neutralize Three Suspected Bandits in Border Community Operations
The Gombe State Police Command has officially confirmed the successful neutralization of three suspected bandits during coordinated security operations across border communities within the state. The operation also resulted in the recovery of significant arms and ammunition, alongside the rescue of kidnapped victims who had been abducted during recent attacks.
Police Confirmation and Initial Foiled Attack
DSP Buhari Abdullahi, the state Police Public Relations Officer, provided detailed confirmation of these developments on Sunday, January 25. He revealed that security forces had previously thwarted an attempted bandit attack on Friday, January 23, thanks to strategic heavy deployments in vulnerable areas along the state's borders.
"On Friday, they (bandits) tried to attack. Unfortunately for them, we have made serious deployments around that axis of Pindiga, Billiri, and Shongom, which are the state's border communities. The bandits couldn't make it," Abdullahi stated emphatically.
Saturday Morning Attack and Security Response
According to the police spokesperson, the attackers later struck in the early hours of Saturday at Garin Galadima within the Lambo community. "On Saturday morning, by 3 am, they went to Garin Galadima, Lambo, where they killed one and abducted five," he added, describing the tragic incident that prompted immediate action.
Abdullahi explained that this attack triggered a swift and coordinated response from multiple security agencies and local vigilante groups. "On hearing that the police, hunters and other security outfits mobilised and followed them," he said, highlighting the collaborative effort that ensued.
Fierce Gun Battle and Operational Outcomes
The pursuit led to an intense exchange of fire between security operatives and the fleeing bandits. "This led to a serious exchange of fire. We neutralised three bandits, recovered two AK-47s, four magazines and four motorcycles, and also rescued three of the victims," Abdullahi reported.
He further disclosed that one victim sustained a gunshot wound during the operation and was later confirmed dead at the hospital, adding a somber note to the otherwise successful mission.
Significant Arms Recovery and Ongoing Operations
The police spokesperson also revealed the recovery of a substantial cache of ammunition from the suspects. "We recovered 120 shells of live ammunition," he stated, underscoring the dangerous arsenal the bandits possessed.
Abdullahi assured residents that security operations remain ongoing with the objective of apprehending the remaining suspects. He noted that some bandits may have escaped with gunshot injuries, indicating continued vigilance is required in the area.
Commitment to Border Community Security
The Gombe State Police Command reiterated its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property throughout the state, with particular emphasis on border communities that remain vulnerable to criminal attacks. Abdullahi urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that can help prevent future incidents.
This coordinated operation demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative security efforts involving police, hunters, and local vigilantes in combating banditry in Nigeria's border regions.
