Katsina State in northwest Nigeria is notorious for banditry and kidnapping activities
No fewer than 62 kidnapped individuals have escaped from a notorious bandit camp in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State following a targeted Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrike.
The state’s Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed the mass escape in a statement issued on Monday in Katsina.
The airstrike, executed on Saturday at 5:10 p.m. in the Jigawa-Sawai area near the Zamfara border, targeted the stronghold of bandit leader Muhammadu Fulani.
“The operation forced the bandits to abandon their camp, allowing the captives to flee,” Mu’azu explained.
He noted that 12 of the escapees are receiving medical care at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 others are being treated at the Nigerian Army Forward Operational Base in Kaiga Malamai.
Interviews with the rescued victims revealed that most were abducted during a nighttime raid on Sayaya village on August 11, 2025, by Fulani’s gang, known for terrorizing communities in Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and parts of Kano State.
“The victims confirmed that approximately 62 people escaped, scattering in various directions after the bandits fled due to the airstrike,” Mu’azu stated.
To maintain security and support ongoing efforts, the Katsina State government has deployed the Quick Response Wing of the NAF to restore calm in the affected areas of Bakori and Matazu LGAs.
“Our troops are actively monitoring the situation to facilitate additional rescues,” the commissioner added. He also reassured families that the government is working to reunite the escapees with their loved ones after completing necessary medical evaluations.
NAN
