62 hostages break free in daring escape as NAF bombs bandits

No fewer than 62 kidnapped victims have regained their freedom following a precision airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on a notorious bandits’ camp in the Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The Katsina State Government confirmed the mass escape in a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu.

According to the statement, the air operation, launched at 5:10 PM on Saturday, targeted the hideout of a feared bandit leader, Muhammadu Fulani, in the Jigawa Sawai area, a community bordering Zamfara State.

“The airstrike forced the terrorists to abandon their position, giving 62 hostages an opportunity to escape,” Mu’azu said.

Out of the escapees, 12 victims are currently receiving treatment at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 others are being held at the Army’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Kaiga Malamai for preliminary care and processing.

Survivors of the abduction confirmed that the bandits fled the camp in disarray once the strike began, allowing captives to flee in multiple directions.

The majority of the victims were reportedly abducted during a night raid on Sayaya village on Monday, August 11, led by Fulani’s gang, which has long been active in Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and even parts of neighboring Kano State.

To contain the increasing threat in affected regions, the Katsina government had earlier deployed a Quick Response Wing of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), leading to Saturday’s successful operation.

“Our troops are still monitoring the situation for further rescue efforts. The area is currently calm, and we will ensure that all rescued victims are reunited with their families after medical evaluation,” the commissioner added.

Governor Dikko Umar Radda praised the bravery of the security forces involved in the mission and reiterated his administration’s commitment to ending banditry in the state.

“This successful operation is a clear sign that our security strategy is working. We will continue to support the gallant efforts of our troops until peace is fully restored in all parts of Katsina,” he stated.