The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has carried out an air raid on the hideout of a notorious bandit leader, Babaro, at Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State, rescuing 76 kidnapped victims.
This was disclosed in a statement on Saturday by the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu.
Mu’azu said Babaro and his gang were behind the recent attack on Mantau community in Malumfashi Local Government Area, which left over 50 people dead. He added that the rescued hostages included victims abducted during the attack on a mosque in Mantau.
According to him, the operation was conducted between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. and precisely targeted Babaro’s stronghold at Pauwa Hill, described as one of his most notorious bases.
He confirmed that one child, however, lost his life during the ordeal.
“The rescue underscores the effectiveness of coordinated air and ground operations, as security forces intensify their efforts to flush out bandits and restore confidence among the people,” Mu’azu said.
The commissioner reiterated the state government’s support to security agencies through logistics, intelligence-sharing, and community engagement, stressing that the fight against banditry would continue until peace is restored.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information that could aid security operations.
