The Nigerian Air Force struck a notorious bandit’s camp in Danmusa local government area of Katsina State, leading to the escape of 62 kidnap victims.
The camp, located in Jigawa Sawai, was the stronghold of infamous bandit leader Muhammadu Fulani, who has been terrorising communities in Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma in Katsina as well as other parts of Kano State.
The airstrike, conducted on Saturday at 5:10 pm, forced the bandits to flee their hideout and created opportunity for the mass escape of victims.
According to a statement signed by Katsina Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, the victims revealed that about 62 of them escaped and took off in different directions after the bandits fled due to the airstrike.
He explained that majority of the victims were abducted from Sayaya Village during a night attack on Monday, August 11, 2025.
Mu’azu added that currently, 12 of the escaped victims were receiving medical attention at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 were waiting at the Army Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Kaiga Malamai for preliminary care and processing.
The Katsina State Government has assured families that the rescued victims will be reunited with their loved ones after completing necessary medical examinations.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda commended the gallantry efforts of the security forces and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ending banditry in the state.
As part of measures to restore peace to the troubled communities, the state government has deployed the Quick Response Wing of the Nigerian Air Force.
He added that troops are currently monitoring the situation for further rescue operations, and the general security situation in the area remains calm.
Governor Radda praised the bravery of the security forces involved in the mission, stating, “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.”
