Police operatives in Katsina State have successfully rescued five kidnapped travelers following a fierce gun battle with armed bandits along the Funtua-Gusau road in Faskari Local Government Area.

According to ASP Abubakar Aliyu, the command's spokesperson, the victims—comprising two drivers and three passengers—were abducted on Monday night at Unguwar-Basau while traveling in a Hummer bus and a white Mendez truck.

The police received a distress call at approximately 9:37 p.m. on May 19, which prompted the immediate deployment of an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) patrol team to the scene.

"The team engaged the attackers in a heated exchange of gunfire and overpowered them through superior tactics and firepower," Aliyu stated. "All five victims were rescued alive."

Four of the rescued victims sustained injuries during the ordeal and were promptly transported to Sheme Primary Health Centre, where they are currently receiving medical treatment and reportedly responding well to care.

Commissioner of Police, Bello Shehu, commended the responding officers for their bravery and professionalism during the operation. He further urged continued vigilance in the ongoing battle against banditry across Katsina State.

This successful rescue operation highlights the continued efforts of security forces to combat the persistent challenge of banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria's northwestern region, where such incidents have become increasingly common in recent years.