62 Hostages Escape After Air Force Raid in Katsina

The Katsina state government has confirmed the dramatic escape of 62 kidnapped victims after a Nigerian Air Force airstrike dismantled a bandit camp in Danmusa Local Government Area.

According to a statement on Sunday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, the victims fled captivity when a targeted strike on notorious bandit leader Muhammadu Fulani’s stronghold at Jigawa Sawai forced his gang to abandon their positions.

“About 62 people escaped and took off in different directions. Twelve are currently receiving treatment at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 are being cared for at the Army Forward Operating Base in Kaiga Malamai,” the statement read.

Most of the victims were abducted on August 11 from Sayaya village during a night raid by Fulani’s gang, which has long terrorized communities in Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and parts of Kano State.

Governor Dikko Umar Radda commended the gallantry of security forces and assured families that all rescued victims would be reunited with their loved ones after medical checks.

The state government also confirmed that the Quick Response Wing of the Air Force has been deployed to Matazu and Bakori to forestall further attacks.

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