In a dramatic turn of events, 62 kidnapped victims escaped in Katsina State after an air strike targeted the camp of notorious bandit kingpin, Muhammadu Fulani.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted the operation on Saturday at 5:10 p.m., forcing the bandits to flee their stronghold and creating an opportunity for the mass escape.
According to a statement on Monday from Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, the air strike took place in the Jigawa-Sawai area, on the border with Zamfara State.
“The Nigerian Air Force operation… forced the bandits to flee their stronghold, creating the opportunity for the mass escape of victims held captive,” Mu’azu said.
The victims confirmed that the bandits fled as a result of the airstrike, allowing them to seize the chance to escape.
Currently, 12 of the escaped victims are receiving medical attention at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 others are at the Nigerian Army Forward Operational Base (FOB) in Kaiga Malamai.
Mu’azu assured the affected families that the government would reunite the rescued victims with their loved ones after completing necessary medical examinations.
“The state government has deployed Quick Response Wing of the Nigerian Air Force to restore peace to the troubled communities in Bakori and Matazu LGAs,” he added.
Persecondnews reports that the majority of the victims were abducted from Sayaya village during a night attack on Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, by Fulani’s gang, which has been terrorizing Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and parts of Kano State.
The state government has assured the public that troops are currently monitoring the situation for further rescue operations.
Mu’azu emphasized that the government would continue to work with security agencies to ensure the safe return of the rescued victims to their families.
“Our troops are currently monitoring the situation for further rescue operations,” he said, reassuring the public of their commitment to security.
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