Police Nab Suspected Bandit in Gombe, Rescue Kidnap Victim in Dual Security Success
In a significant breakthrough for law enforcement in northeastern Nigeria, the Gombe State Police Command has announced the arrest of a suspected bandit and the successful rescue of a kidnap victim in separate but coordinated operations. These developments highlight ongoing efforts to combat insecurity in the region, with authorities leveraging community collaboration and proactive patrols.
Arrest of Suspected Bandit with Weapons Cache
According to a press statement released on Friday by ASP Buhari Abdullahi, the Police Public Relations Officer for Gombe State, operatives from the Pindiga Divisional Police Headquarters made a critical arrest on January 18, 2026. At approximately 2:30 pm, during an aggressive stop-and-search patrol in the area, officers intercepted and detained a suspect identified as Shehu Hussaini.
Upon searching Hussaini, police discovered a concerning arsenal: 13 live cartridges, one cutlass, one knife, and one Honda motorcycle. The suspect was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for possessing these items, raising immediate red flags. Further investigation revealed that Hussaini was allegedly en route to deliver the cartridges to his commander in a forest area within the Mansur axis of Alkaleri Local Government, Bauchi State.
ASP Abdullahi confirmed that the suspect is currently in police custody, with investigations ongoing to unravel the full extent of his involvement and to apprehend other members of the criminal network. Further developments will be communicated as the investigation progresses, he assured the public.
Swift Rescue of Kidnap Victim Through Joint Efforts
In a related success, the police disclosed that on January 21, 2026, they received information regarding the abduction of Honourable Hassan Reuben from Nahuta Village in Tula, Kaltungo Local Government Area of Gombe State. Acting swiftly, a coordinated response was launched.
Through the combined efforts of police operatives attached to Awak and Tula Divisions, alongside Vigilantes and local hunters, the victim was successfully rescued unhurt on the same date. The operation took place at Tule Berbere, a location just a few kilometres from Kunge Village in Awak, Kaltungo Local Government.
Honourable Reuben was immediately taken to a hospital for medical evaluation and has since been reunited with his family safely. This rescue underscores the effectiveness of community-police partnerships in addressing security challenges.
Additional Arrests of Suspected Accomplices
Adding to the operation's success, three suspected female accomplices were apprehended in the area where the victim was rescued. The suspects, identified as Aisha Salihu, Fati Ado, and Adama Buba, all residents of Luga Edi Kamo in Awak, Kaltungo Local Government Area, are strongly believed to be spouses or accomplices of the perpetrators.
Their arrest marks a further step in dismantling the kidnapping ring and preventing future incidents. The police have emphasized that these operations are part of a broader strategy to enhance security and protect citizens in Gombe State and its environs.
As investigations continue, authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, reinforcing the collaborative approach needed to sustain peace and safety in the region.
