The Nigerian Air Force airstrike on a bandit stronghold in Katsina has left one child dead and 76 kidnapped victims, including women and children, rescued.
The operation, which took place at Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area, targeted the hideout of notorious kingpin, Babaro, and his gang, who were behind the recent deadly attack on Gidan Mantau in Malumfashi.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed the strike in a statement on Saturday, saying all abductees from the Gidan Mantau attack were among those freed.
“This morning, the NAF carried out a decisive air operation at Pauwa Hill, successfully rescuing 76 kidnapped victims, including women and children.
“The precision air interdiction, conducted between 6 pm and 7 pm, specifically targeted Babaro’s stronghold, one of his most notorious bases that has long been a source of terror to surrounding communities,” he stated.
Mu’azu described the rescue as a major breakthrough in Katsina’s security efforts, stressing that it was part of ongoing strategies to dismantle criminal hideouts, disrupt bandit networks, and curb killings and kidnappings.
He added, “The rescue underscores the effectiveness of coordinated air and ground operations. The Katsina State Government commends the Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Army, and other security agencies for their courage and professionalism. We remain committed to supporting them until banditry is completely eradicated.”
Citizens were urged to stay vigilant and provide security agencies with timely information to aid ongoing operations aimed at reclaiming towns and villages from criminals.
