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Anthony Ufoh
The Nigeria Air Force (NAF) on Saturday carried out a mission and neutralised bandits in the Jigawa Sawai community, Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State, after which 62 victims who were kidnapped by a notorious criminal, Muhammed Fulani and his men regained their freedom.
The operation, conducted on Saturday afternoon, was a manhunt for a notorious bandit, Muhammadu Fulani, at his camp located in the community
A statement issued on Sunday in Katsina by military authorities said the air operation, carried out on Saturday at about 5:10 p.m., forced the bandits to flee their stronghold, giving the victims the opportunity to escape.
Dr. Nasir Muazu, the state’s Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, said that the escapees are currently receiving treatment at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 are still with military operatives.
Zagazola Makama, a security and counterinsurgency expert on his X account (formerly Twitter) said,” 12 of the victims are receiving medical attention at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 others are being sheltered at the Army Forward Operating Base in Kaiga Malamai.
“The victims revealed that the bandits abandoned their camp during the airstrike, which enabled about 62 captives to escape in different directions.
“Most of the victims were abducted from Sayaya village during a night attack on Aug. 11 by Fulani’s gang, which has been terrorising communities in Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma and parts of Kano State,” the statement said.
“The majority of the victims were abducted from Sayaya village during a night attack on Monday, August 11, 2025, by Fulani’s gang, which has been terrorising Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and parts of Kano State.
According to Zagazola, “Troops are monitoring the area to consolidate on the operation and ensure further rescue of victims.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda commended the gallantry of the security forces and assured families of the victims that they would be reunited with their loved ones after undergoing necessary medical examinations.
He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting security agencies in the fight against banditry.