62 Kidnapped Victims Regain Freedom As Military Jets Hit Bandits’ Base in Katsina

62 Kidnapped Victims Regain Freedom As Military Jets Hit Bandits’ Base in Katsina

The Katsina State Government has announced the successful escape of 62 kidnapped individuals following a targeted Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrike on the hideout of notorious bandit leader Muhammadu Fulani.

The operation, which took place in Jigawa Sawai within Danmusa Local Government Area, close to the Zamfara border, resulted in the destruction of Fulani’s camp.

This development was shared in a statement issued Monday to Defence Correspondents in Abuja by Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, Katsina State’s Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs.

According to the statement, twelve of the escapees are currently receiving treatment at Matazu General Hospital, while sixteen others are being cared for at the Army Forward Operating Base in Kaiga Malamai.

The airstrike, carried out at 5:10 p.m. on Saturday, forced the bandits to flee, creating a window for the captives to escape. Interviews with the victims confirmed that the air raid directly triggered the bandits’ retreat, allowing the hostages to scatter and flee to safety.

Most of the victims had been abducted during a night raid on Sayaya village on August 11, 2025, by Fulani’s gang, which has been linked to a series of attacks across Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and parts of Kano State.

In response to ongoing banditry in Matazu and Bakori Local Government Areas, the Nigerian Air Force’s Quick Response Wing has been deployed to stabilize the region and restore peace.

“Our troops continue to monitor the situation for further rescue efforts. The general security atmosphere remains calm. We assure families that the rescued victims will be reunited with their loved ones after undergoing necessary medical evaluations,” the statement added.

Under the leadership of Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, the Katsina State Government praised the bravery of the security forces and reiterated its unwavering commitment to eradicating banditry in the state.