Bandits attack Bauchi town, kidnap relatives of JIBWIS chief Imam

Suspected kidnappers have abducted members of the family of **Abubakar Muhammad Digare**, the Chief Imam of the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah JIBWIS), during a late-night attack on Digare town in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

The invasion occurred at about 10:30 p.m. on Saturday as residents were preparing to retire for the night. Witnesses said the gunmen fired repeatedly into the air before storming the cleric’s residence, creating panic across the neighbourhood.

Hon. Buba Jauro, councillor representing Digare Ward, said the first shots initially made residents think security operatives were responding to threats in the area. “A few minutes later, more gunshots followed and we knew something was wrong. People who were still outside quickly ran back into their homes,” he said.

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According to him, the attackers targeted the imam’s household, but the cleric managed to escape before they could reach his room. The assailants reportedly seized several family members in the process.

Residents described the raid as swift and chaotic, with the gunmen leaving shortly after taking their captives. The community has since been gripped by fear, despite the presence of security personnel. As of the time of filing this report, no ransom demand had been made.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Bauchi State Police Command, Nafiu Abubakar, said the command received the report on Sunday morning.

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He stated that unknown gunmen invaded a residence in Anguwan Madaki area of the village and abducted four female relatives. The kidnappers were also said to have carted away two mobile phones.

The police spokesman added that a joint operation involving security agencies and local vigilantes led to the rescue of two persons unharmed, while efforts are ongoing to free the remaining victims and apprehend those responsible.

The Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, assured residents that operatives are intensifying search-and-rescue efforts to ensure the safe return of those still in captivity.

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