The Katsina State Police Command has successfully rescued at least 319 kidnapped victims in 2024, reuniting them with their families and loved ones, according to Police Commissioner CP Aliyu Musa.

During a ceremony at the Police Officers’ Mess marking the end of the year, CP Musa highlighted the Command's accomplishments, including neutralizing 40 bandits and recovering 2,081 rustled animals, which were returned to their rightful owners to boost the local economy.

CP Musa detailed additional successes, noting that the Command had arrested 199 suspected armed robbers, enhancing security across Katsina communities. A total of 573 suspects were apprehended for various crimes, including criminal intimidation and breach of trust, underscoring the Command’s commitment to combating criminal activities.

“Our efforts have resulted in a significant reduction in the crime rate across the state,” CP Musa said. “We dismantled several notorious criminal networks, rescued numerous kidnapped victims, and recovered substantial amounts of stolen property.”

He also reported the prosecution of 23 major drug dealers, disrupting the supply of illicit substances, and the arrest of 89 suspected vehicle thieves, leading to the recovery of 27 vehicles and motorcycles. Additionally, the Command upgraded its facilities and structures, equipping them with modern tools to enhance operational efficiency and emergency response.

Brigadier General Babatunde Omopariola, Commander of the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, lauded the collaboration between the military and police in crime control, intelligence sharing, and joint operations. He commended CP Musa and his team for their dedication and urged them to sustain their efforts to achieve even greater success in the future.

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Radda, represented by Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu Danmusa, the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, praised the Command’s efforts while recounting the grave insecurity he inherited upon assuming office on May 29, 2023.

“At the time, 24 local government areas were under siege by bandits, with frequent attacks, kidnappings, and rustling,” he said. “In response, the State Government established the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs to address these challenges effectively.”

He noted that these initiatives have freed 16 local government areas from banditry, bringing relative peace even to frontline areas. Governor Radda urged all stakeholders to maintain the momentum, ensuring a completely secure and prosperous Katsina State.

The event also recognized outstanding contributions to security efforts. Governor Radda received an award for his unwavering commitment to combating insecurity, while heads of sister security agencies were honored for synergy in operations. CP Aliyu Musa received a leadership award for his incorruptible service and strategic thinking, alongside accolades for selfless service to humanity.

These achievements underscore the collective efforts of security agencies and the government in restoring peace and stability to Katsina State.