BTvNEWS

Two Suspects Neutralised in Ikara Gun Battle as Three CJTF Members Die, Two Officers Wounded

By AbdulHakeem Mutiu Adejumo-Ajeseku, Kaduna-Nigeria

BTvNEWS: Security operatives in Kaduna State have dealt a major blow to suspected kidnapping activities in Ikara Local Government Area, rescuing two kidnapped victims, dismantling a suspected kidnappers’ camp and neutralising two suspects during a fierce gun battle.

The operation, which took place at about 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, followed credible intelligence regarding the presence and activities of suspected kidnappers around Auchanawa and Wambai communities in Ikara Local Government Area.

The operation was spearheaded by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Ikara, alongside Police operatives, members of the Vigilante Service and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

According to the Kaduna State Police Command, the security team stormed the identified location and engaged the suspected criminals in a gun duel after arriving at the area.

The operatives subsequently carried out an extensive clearance operation across the surrounding bushes, successfully dismantling the suspected kidnappers’ camp and rescuing two kidnapped victims without injuries.

In the course of the confrontation, two suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while several others reportedly fled into the surrounding bushes, with some believed to have sustained gunshot wounds.

However, the successful operation was not without significant casualties on the part of the security team.

Three members of the CJTF reportedly lost their lives during the encounter, while two Police officers sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving medical treatment.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, CP Muhammad Rabiu, expressed condolences to the families of the fallen CJTF members and wished the injured Police officers a speedy recovery.

The Commissioner also renewed his appeal to residents across the state to support ongoing security operations by providing timely, credible and actionable intelligence to the Police.

CP Muhammad Rabiu declared, “These clearance operations will continue until these criminals are completely dislodged from their hideouts.”

“The Command remains unwavering in its determination to protect lives and property and restore lasting peace and security across the state,” he added.

The Ikara operation highlights the growing importance of coordinated efforts among the Police, vigilante groups and community-based security formations in confronting kidnapping networks and other criminal elements operating in remote areas of Kaduna State.