By Nkechi Eze
The Katsina State Government has confirmed the dramatic escape of 62 kidnapped victims following a successful air interdiction mission conducted by the Nigerian Air Force on the enclave of a notorious bandit leader, Muhammadu Fulani, in Jigawa Sawai, Danmusa Local Government Area – a community bordering Zamfara State.
In an official statement released by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, the government disclosed that the victims managed to escape after an airstrike on the bandits’ camp forced the criminals to flee in disarray. The strike was executed at about 5:10pm on Saturday.
According to the Commissioner, twelve of the escapees are presently receiving medical attention at Matazu General Hospital, while sixteen others are being housed at the Nigerian Army Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Kaiga Malamai.
Survivors who spoke with security officials confirmed that the coordinated air assault disrupted the bandit camp and prompted Fulani’s fighters to abandon their captives. The victims said that as soon as the airstrike commenced, the gunmen fled in different directions, allowing about 62 abductees to take their chances and escape in various directions.
Most of the victims were seized from Sayaya village during a night raid on Monday, 11 August 2025, by the Fulani-led gang that has been terrorising Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and parts of neighbouring Kano State.
In response to the persistent attacks in Matazu and Bakori Local Government Areas, the Katsina State Government has deployed the Nigerian Air Force Quick Response Wing to restore security and reinforce confidence among residents of the affected communities.
“Our troops are currently monitoring the situation for further rescue operations. The general security situation in the area remains calm,” the statement added.
The government further assured worried families that all rescued victims will be reunited with their loved ones after completing the necessary medical checks and documentation.
Meanwhile, the State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, commended the gallant efforts of the security forces and reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to ending banditry and restoring peace across the state.
