Katsina local authorities have confirmed the release of 62 people abducted by bandits, following a precision airstrike on their captors’ hideout. 12 are currently receiving medical attention, while 16 others are being cared for at the army operating base in Malamai.
The state’s commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, lauded the Nigerian Air Force for their successful operations. He stated that the airstrike caused the bandits to flee, allowing their captives to escape and scatter in multiple directions.
In a statement on Monday, Mu’azu confirmed that the operation took place at about 5:10 p.m. on Saturday. According to him, the operation targeted the camp of notorious bandit leader Muhammadu Fulani, on the Zamfara State border.
When questioned, the escapees revealed that most of the abductees were kidnapped on August 11 by Filani’s gang. The terrorists continue to terrorise surrounding areas, including Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and parts of Kano State.
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To tackle this, the state government has since deployed a Quick Response Wing of the NAF to Local Government Areas. This is to ensure stability and carry out operations that will neutralise the terrorist gang in the state.
The state commissioner also affirmed that troops remain on the ground, monitoring the area and supporting additional operations as needed. He concluded by reassuring the victim’s families that the government would reunite the rescued victims with their families after adequate medical care.
Nigerian troops rescue 38 kidnapped victims, apprehend 82 bandits
Nigerian troops stationed across various theatres have rescued 38 kidnapped victims and arrested 82 suspects, including terrorist collaborators. Director of Defence Media Operations, Markus Kangye, revealed that several bandits were neutralized, including foiling an attempt to steal crude oil worth over 37 million naira.
Kangye noted that the offensive operations ranged from raids, ambushes, fighting patrols, and other covert missions with resounding successes. Also, the air component conducted air support and interceptive missions during which several ISWAP terrorists were neutralized and their hideouts destroyed.
The ongoing operation to eliminate armed bandits was conducted across Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, among other states.
