The Gombe State Police Command has rescued a 48-year-old cattle owner who was abducted by armed men in Nafada Local Government Area of the state, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
The victim, Alhaji Adamu Bappah, was kidnapped in the early hours of Tuesday when assailants stormed his cattle settlement in Tingile Village, located in the Birin Fulani area. The attackers, armed with sticks, machetes and knives, reportedly struck at about 3:00 a.m. on February 11, 2026.
Police said the suspects assaulted Bappah and his son before taking the victim to an undisclosed location. His son sustained injuries during the attack and was taken to hospital for medical treatment.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, a joint rescue operation involving police personnel, local hunters and vigilante groups was immediately launched after the incident was reported.
The coordinated effort led to Bappah’s rescue later the same day at about 3:00 p.m. in a bush area within neighbouring Kwami Local Government Area.
Following his rescue, the victim was taken to a hospital for medical examination and subsequently reunited with his family.
Security operatives have since commenced a manhunt for the suspects, who fled the area after the operation.
“The command remains steadfast in its commitment to combating crime and safeguarding the lives and property of residents across Gombe State,” Abdullahi said.
Kidnapping and rural banditry continue to pose major security challenges in parts of northern Nigeria, prompting closer collaboration between security agencies and community-based groups.
Rabilu Abubakar is a Nigerian journalist and media practitioner based in Gombe State with over 20 years of experience in reporting, translation, and newsroom management. Fluent in Hausa and English, he holds a Professional Diploma in Mass Communication, a Diploma in Public Accounting and Auditing from Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, and additional training from Aminu Kano College of Islamic and Legal Studies.
He has worked with leading media organizations including Media Trust, Aminiya Newspaper, Leadership Hausa, and Dandal Kura Radio International, and served as News Editor at Magana Newspaper.
His expertise covers news writing, public health reporting, election coverage, and translation services.
He currently serves as a freelance correspondent for The Daily Frontier Online News Platform, reporting from Gombe State.
