Bala Mohammed Confirms Rescue of 50 Abducted persons in Duguri as Security Forces Intensify Operations in Bauchi

The Bauchi State Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed has confirmed the rescue of abducted persons in Duguri, Alkaleri Local Government Area of the state following intensified military and security operations in the area.

The Governor disclosed this while addressing journalists at the Duguri Primary Health care center which he described as fully operational.

According to him, at least 21 rescued victims are currently at the Duguri camp, while about 29 others were earlier recovered in a related operation in Fatuk, with some already treated and discharged.

Governor Bala Mohammed attributed the success of the operation to the swift intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he praised for responding decisively to the security challenges facing the state.

He noted that Bauchi, which previously had minimal experience with banditry, had recently come under threat due to the spillover of criminal activities from neighboring states.

The Governor said the deployment of the Nigerian Army, alongside other security agencies with advanced technology, aerial support, and reinforced firepower, has significantly weakened bandit groups operating in the area.

He however, emphasized that the fight against insecurity is ongoing, describing the situation as a “work in progress,” while calling on community leaders and local government authorities to remain vigilant.

Bala Mohammed raised concern over the role of informants and accomplices within communities, warning that such collaboration is fueling criminal activities.

He also linked the rise in insecurity to illegal mining activities in the area, noting that while many young people involved may be innocent, the practice continues to attract criminal elements and expose locals to danger.

The Governor revealed that most of the rescued victims were not indigenes of Bauchi State but came from neighboring states such as Gombe, Taraba, and even as far as Kaduna, highlighting the widespread and cross-border nature of banditry.

He directed security agencies to properly profile all rescued individuals before their release to ensure that no criminal elements infiltrate the process.

Governor Bala Mohammed expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army, the Police, the Department of State Services DSS, Civil Defence, and other security agencies for their coordinated efforts.

He also commended local communities for their cooperation, assuring continued government support in restoring peace and stability to the affected areas.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and ensuring the safety of lives and property across Bauchi State.