Nigerian authorities announced the successful rescue of at least 76 hostages, including women and children, following a precision air strike on a bandit hideout in Katsina State. The operation, carried out by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), targeted a notorious gang leader known as Babaro, responsible for a deadly mosque attack in Malumfashi last week that claimed the lives of at least 50 people. The statement from the Katsina State Internal Security Ministry confirmed that all those abducted during the mosque attack were among the rescued. Sadly, one child perished during the ordeal.
This rescue comes amidst a surge in kidnappings across northwest and north-central Nigeria, perpetrated by criminal gangs and terrorist groups. Despite ongoing government security measures, including frequent army bombing raids, these attacks continue to rise, posing a significant challenge to the nation’s security forces. Earlier this month, at least 45 women and children were abducted in Zamfara State, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem. In another incident, gunmen killed 38 people in Banga village, Zamfara State, despite a substantial ransom payment.
The NAF air strike on Pauwa Hill, described by Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security Nasir Mu’azu as part of a broader strategy, aims to dismantle criminal hideouts and weaken their networks. The commissioner emphasized the government’s commitment to ending the cycle of violence plaguing the region. In a separate operation, the Nigerian Armed Forces reported killing over 35 suspected jihadists in Borno State, near the Cameroon border, following attempted attacks on ground troops.
The ongoing struggle against these criminal elements underscores the complex security challenges facing Nigeria. The successful rescue mission offers a glimmer of hope, but the persistent threat of kidnappings and violence highlights the urgent need for sustained and comprehensive security efforts across the affected regions.
