62 Victims Escape After Air Force Strike Kidnappers’ Camp
By Joe Goddy, Katsina
The Nigerian Air Force struck a notorious bandit camp in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State, leading to the dramatic escape of 62 kidnapped victims.
The camp, located in Jigawa Sawai, was the stronghold of infamous bandit leader Muhammadu Fulani, who has been terrorizing communities in Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and parts of Kano State.
The airstrike, conducted on Saturday at 5:10 pm, forced the bandits to flee their hideout, creating an opportunity for the mass escape of victims held captive.
According to a statement signed by the commissioner for internal security and home affairs of the state, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, the victims revealed that about 62 people 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, by Fulani’s gang.
He said currently, 12 of the escaped victims are receiving medical attention at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 are 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.
To restore peace to the troubled communities, the state government has deployed the Quick Response Wing of the Nigerian Air Force. 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.”