NAF Raids Bandits’ Hideout in Katsina, Rescues 62 Kidnap Victims

Following a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrike on a bandit hideout in Jigawa Sawai, Danmusa Local Government Area, 62 kidnapped individuals in Katsina State have been freed.

The operation, which targeted the camp of a notorious bandit leader, Muhammadu Fulani, was carried out on Saturday evening near the Katsina-Zamfara border.

Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security, Nasir Mu’azu, said the sudden air assault forced the gunmen to flee in disarray, creating an opportunity for the captives to escape.

“Twelve of the rescued victims are being treated at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 others are receiving care at the Army Forward Operating Base in Kaiga Malamai,” the commissioner disclosed.

Survivors told officials that the chaos during the raid allowed dozens of hostages, who had been seized in earlier attacks, to scatter in different directions and find their way to safety.

Most of the freed victims were reportedly abducted on August 11 during a night raid on Sayaya village in Matazu LGA. Reports revealed that Fulani’s gang (bandits) have been behind a series of violent assaults across Katsina and neighbouring Kano State.

Mu’azu added that a quick-response Air Force wing had been deployed to Matazu and Bakori LGAs to forestall further attacks.

“Troops are currently monitoring the situation for further rescue operations. The general security situation in the area remains calm,” he assured.

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Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has commended the security forces, describing the development as a major breakthrough in the fight against rural banditry.

“We appreciate the gallant efforts of our troops and security agencies. My administration remains fully committed to ending banditry in Katsina State,” Radda said.

The North-west and central Nigeria have in recent years witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups locally called bandits, who engage in mass kidnappings, deadly raids, and assaults on highways and schools.

Officials said plans were already in place to reunite the rescued victims with their families once medical examinations were completed.