The Zamfara State Police Command has foiled an attempted invasion of Maru metropolis by suspected armed bandits who allegedly planned a mass abduction in the area.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, DSP Yazid Abubakar, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Sunday in Gusau.

Abubakar said the attempted attack was thwarted following timely and credible intelligence received by security agencies in the state.

According to him, a joint security team comprising personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian military, community protection guards and local vigilante groups swiftly mobilised to confront the attackers.

“Acting on credible and timely intelligence, a joint security team comprising the police, the military, community protection guards and vigilante groups engaged the armed bandits.

“The attackers were forced to retreat with suspected gunshot injuries. No casualty or abduction was recorded during the operation,” the police spokesman said.

He added that security had been reinforced in Maru metropolis and surrounding communities to forestall further attacks and ensure the safety of residents.

Abubakar quoted the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ibrahim Maikaba, as commending the professionalism, courage and prompt response of the operatives involved in the operation.

The commissioner, he said, reassured residents of the command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Zamfara State.

“He urged members of the public to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and actionable intelligence to aid security operations,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, the police command disclosed that it had similarly foiled another criminal operation by suspected bandits in the state last week.

According to the statement, on Dec. 21, 2025, at about 4:55 p.m., operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the command, led by ASP Aliyu Bilyaminu Koko, while on routine patrol along the Tsafe–Yankuzo axis, received intelligence that armed bandits carrying sophisticated weapons had blocked the Tsafe–Yanwarin Daji road.

“Upon arrival at the scene, the bandits opened fire on the police team, leading to a fierce gun duel.

“During the exchange, some of the suspects fled into the bush with possible gunshot injuries, while others jumped into a nearby river and escaped,” the statement said.

It added that one of the suspects, identified as Umar Alhaji Buhari, also known as ‘Bingil,’ surrendered and was arrested by the operatives.

The command disclosed that the suspect was currently in police custody and would be subjected to a thorough investigation before being charged to court.

The commissioner of police further commended residents of Zamfara State for their cooperation and support, assuring them of sustained efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.

“Members of the public are encouraged to continue supporting the police with credible and actionable intelligence to enhance security operations across the state,” the statement said.