A significant security success unfolded in Katsina State as at least 62 abducted individuals, comprising women and children, managed to escape from a bandits’ stronghold. This dramatic liberation followed a meticulously executed airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at approximately 05:10 p.m. The operation was specifically launched as part of a comprehensive manhunt for a notorious bandit leader identified as Muhammadu Fulani, targeting his camp located in the Jigawa Sawai community within Danmusa Local Government Area.

Dr. Nasir Muazu, the state’s Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, issued a statement confirming the mass escape. According to his report, 12 of the freed hostages are currently undergoing medical treatment at Matazu General Hospital, while another 16 are being sheltered and monitored at the Army Forward Operating Base in Kaiga Malamai. The successful NAF operation effectively forced the bandits to abandon their fortified position, creating a crucial window of opportunity for the captives to flee in various directions.

Interviews conducted with the rescued victims corroborated that the bandits’ hasty retreat during the airstrike was the direct catalyst for their escape. The majority of these victims had been forcibly abducted from Sayaya village during a night assault on Monday, August 11, 2025. This attack was attributed to Muhammadu Fulani’s gang, a criminal syndicate that has been a source of terror across communities in Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and even extending into parts of Kano State.

In response to the escalating bandit attacks in the Matazu and Bakori Local Government Areas, the Katsina State Government has taken proactive measures, including the strategic deployment of the Quick Response Wing of the Nigerian Air Force. This deployment aims to restore peace and stability to the affected communities. Furthermore, security troops are actively monitoring the situation on the ground to consolidate on the success of the operation and facilitate any further rescue efforts. The general security landscape in the region has been reported as calm following these interventions.

Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, the Governor of Katsina State, has publicly commended the exceptional gallantry and dedication of the security forces involved in this operation. He also reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive support to security agencies in their relentless fight against banditry across the state. The government has assured the families of the rescued victims that they will be safely reunited with their loved ones once all necessary medical examinations have been completed, underscoring a holistic approach to the aftermath of the crisis.