62 kidnapped victims escaped after an air strike by the Nigerian Air Force targeted a bandits' camp in Katsina State. The operation aimed at notorious bandit kingpin Muhammadu Fulani enabled the captives to flee.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed that the air strike occurred in the Jigawa-Sawai area on the border with Zamfara.Among the escaped victims, 12 are receiving medical attention at Matazu General Hospital, and 16 are at a Nigerian Army Forward Operational Base.
The airstrike caused the bandits to abandon their stronghold, allowing the victims to escape in different directions. Most of the victims were abducted during a night raid by Fulani's gang on August 11, 2025.
The state government has sent a Quick Response Wing of the Nigerian Air Force to help restore peace in affected communities.
The commissioner assured families that the government would reunite the rescued victims with their loved ones after medical checks are completed.