Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Gombe, Nigeria — Security forces in Gombe State have neutralised three suspected bandits and rescued multiple abducted victims during a gun battle in the Pindiga District of Akko Local Government Area, authorities confirmed on Sunday, 25 January 2026. The operation also led to the recovery of AK-47 rifles, ammunition and motorcycles, highlighting continued efforts to tackle violent crime and banditry in the region.
According to a statement by DSP Buhari Abdullahi, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Gombe State Police Command, units responded swiftly after distress calls reported attacks by suspected armed bandits in several communities including Rahama, Lambo and Garin Galadima on Saturday afternoon.
The bandits had reportedly shot and killed 70-year-old Tela Ahmadu in Rahama Village and abducted his two sons before moving on to Lambo Village where several other residents were taken captive. In response, Police Tactical Teams under Operation Hattara, backed by local hunters and vigilantes, pursued the assailants, leading to a fierce gun duel.
During the operation, three of the armed men were neutralised by security operatives. Two of the abducted victims, Babayo Garba and Malam Abba Musa, were rescued and taken to hospital for medical checks, although one of the abductees, 20-year-old Baayo Bayi, was tragically killed in the crossfire. Other bandits reportedly escaped into nearby forests with gunshot wounds as reinforcements converged on the area.
Security forces recovered two AK-47 rifles, 68 rounds of live 7.62mm ammunition, four magazines, 120 spent ammunition shells and four operational motorcycles believed to have been used by the outlaws during their raids.
The PPRO said additional efforts are underway to track down the remaining abductees — including the sons of Tela Ahmadu — and to apprehend fleeing suspects. He described the collaboration between police, hunter groups and vigilantes as crucial in overwhelming the bandits’ mobility and forest cover.
The clashes come amid a broader surge in banditry across parts of northern Nigeria that has seen frequent attacks, abductions and reprisals. In recent weeks, communities in Gombe’s rural districts have called for reinforced security presence and better protection as residents contend with repeated raids and fear of further violence.
Authorities have appealed to local populations to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements promptly, as coordinated operations continue with the aim of restoring peace and normalcy across affected areas.
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