August 23, (THEWILL) — The Nigerian Air Force has launched a decisive airstrike on a bandit enclave in Katsina State, rescuing 76 kidnapped victims, including women and children.
The strike, carried out early Saturday at Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area, targeted the stronghold of a notorious kingpin, Babaro, and his gang.
The group was linked to the recent attack on Gidan Mantau in Malumfashi LGA.
According to the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, the precision raid took place between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. and destroyed Babaro’s hideout.
However, one child was confirmed dead during the rescue operation.
Muazu described the strike as a breakthrough in the government’s wider mission to dismantle criminal networks and restore safety in affected communities.
He praised the coordination between air and ground forces, noting that all those abducted in the Gidan Mantau attack were among those freed.
The state government commended the Nigerian Air Force, the Army, and other agencies for their bravery, pledging continued support through logistics, intelligence-sharing, and community engagement.
It also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information to aid security efforts.
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