Kidnapped Kebbi High Court Judge Regains Freedom as Police Intensify Hunt for Abductors

The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed the release of Hon. Justice Faruk Hassan Bunza, a judge of the Kebbi State High Court, who was abducted from his residence in Bunza Local Government Area on July 26, 2026.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, the police disclosed that the judge regained his freedom earlier on August 3, 2026. His release was confirmed by both his family and the Kebbi State Ministry of Justice.

According to the police, although the kidnappers had demanded a ransom during the period of captivity, the Command maintained its long-standing policy against the payment of ransom.

With Justice Bunza now safely reunited with his family, security agencies have shifted their focus to identifying and apprehending those responsible for the abduction. The police said investigations have been intensified, with detectives working alongside other security agencies to track down the perpetrators and ensure they face prosecution.

The Command appealed to members of the public to support the ongoing investigation by volunteering any credible information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects. It assured residents that all information received would be handled with strict confidentiality to protect informants.

Police authorities also expressed appreciation to residents, community leaders, and partner security agencies for their cooperation throughout the rescue efforts, describing the public’s support as instrumental during the period of the judge’s captivity.

Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Kebbi State, the Command assured residents that it remains resolute in combating kidnapping and other forms of violent crime.

The police urged anyone with useful information related to the case or other criminal activities to contact the Kebbi State Police Command through its emergency control room lines or the nearest police station.

The release of Justice Bunza brings relief to the state’s judiciary and legal community, even as authorities continue efforts to dismantle the criminal network behind his abduction and strengthen security across the state.