At least 62 kidnapped victims have regained their freedom after escaping from a notorious bandits’ camp in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State, following a precision airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
The dramatic escape was confirmed on Monday by the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, who credited the successful operation to a coordinated offensive by NAF.
According to Dr. Mu’azu, the targeted airstrike took place at 5:10 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, in the Jigawa-Sawai area near the Zamfara border. The operation specifically struck the hideout of a notorious bandit kingpin, Muhammadu Fulani.
“The air offensive forced the armed criminals to abandon their camp in disarray, giving the captives an opportunity to escape,” the commissioner said.
Following their escape, 12 victims are currently receiving medical treatment at Matazu General Hospital, while another 16 are being cared for at the Nigerian Army’s Forward Operational Base in Kaiga Malamai.
Initial investigations and interviews revealed that the majority of the victims were abducted during a night raid on Sayaya village on August 11, 2025. The attack was allegedly carried out by Fulani’s gang, a group infamous for violent operations across Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and some parts of neighboring Kano State.
“The victims reported that about 62 individuals managed to flee the camp, scattering into nearby areas after the terrorists were forced to flee under heavy bombardment,” Mu’azu stated.
In response, the state government has mobilized the Nigerian Air Force’s Quick Response Wing to maintain security and stabilize the affected communities in Bakori and Matazu Local Government Areas.
“Our security teams remain on high alert and are actively monitoring the situation to ensure additional rescues and prevent further attacks,” the commissioner assured.
He also noted that the government is working diligently to reunite the escapees with their families following medical assessments and debriefings.
