Security Forces Launch Massive Rescue Operation After Bandits Abduct 25 Schoolgirls in Kebbi

By Emmanuel Kwada

A combined team of police tactical units, Nigerian military personnel and local vigilantes has been deployed on an urgent rescue mission following the pre-dawn abduction of twenty-five female students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed that the attack occurred at approximately 4:00 a.m. on Monday, 17th November 2025, when a gang of heavily armed bandits stormed the school, shooting indiscriminately as they scaled the perimeter fence.

Police officers on guard duty immediately engaged the assailants in a fierce gun battle, but the gunmen succeeded in entering the girls’ hostel and abducting 25 students, whisking them away into the surrounding bush.

One civilian, Hassan Makuku, was killed during the exchange of fire, while another, Ali Shehu, sustained gunshot wounds to his right hand.

In a statement issued Monday afternoon, Police Public Relations Officer CSP Nafiu Abubakar Kotarkoshi said:

“Upon receiving the unfortunate incident, a combined team of additional Police tactical units, military personnel and Vigilantes has been deployed in the area and they are currently combing the bandits’ routes and nearby forest, with a view to rescue the abducted students and possibly arrest the perpetrators of the dastardly act.”

Commissioner of Police Bello M. Sani reassured the public of the command’s unwavering commitment to the safety of lives and property in the state, urging residents to remain calm and vigilant while continuing to support security operations with credible information.

As at 2:05 PM WAT, intensive search-and-rescue operations are ongoing across Maga and adjoining communities, with security forces focusing on known bandit hideouts and escape routes.

This latest school abduction has once again highlighted the persistent security challenges in parts of northern Nigeria. Authorities have appealed for calm as efforts continue to secure the safe return of the 25 abducted students.