A rescue attempt by vigilante operatives in the early hours of Thursday turned tragic in Sandi Village, Gulani Local Government Area of Yobe State, leaving one person dead and another injured.
According to local sources, a group of vigilante members from Damaturu, led by Danshuwa and Umar Birnigadam, arrived in Sandi Village at about 4:30 a.m. to rescue alleged kidnapped victims. The team, acting independently, reportedly proceeded straight to the scene of the suspected abduction.
During the operation, the vigilantes allegedly shot Ahmed Shuwa, 37, and Muhammad Bello, 27, both residents of the area. The operatives also arrested one Alhaji Lawan and took away a motorcycle and a bicycle.
Community members rushed the injured victims to the hospital in Bara for medical attention. However, Ahmed Shuwa later died from the gunshot wounds sustained during the incident.
Reacting to the incident, the Police in Yobe Command said that the vigilantes proceeded to the scene without notifying police operatives in Bara Division. During which they allegedly shot Ahmed Shuwa and Muhammad Bello.
Upon receiving the report, a police team visited the scene and evacuated the victims to Bara Hospital for treatment.
Sources from the Command confirmed that an investigation has commenced to determine the circumstances leading to the shooting and to ensure that the persons responsible are identified and apprehended.
The Police assured residents that decisive action will be taken to address the incident and prevent a recurrence.
