NAF strikes Babaro’s hideout in Katsina, rescues 76 kidnap victims

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its manhunt for notorious bandit leader Babaro and his gang, who masterminded the recent deadly attack on Gidan Mantau community in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed that NAF carried out a targeted air operation at Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area—one of Babaro’s most feared hideouts—rescuing 76 kidnapped victims, including women and children.

Mu’azu explained that the precision strike, which took place between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., specifically targeted the gang’s stronghold. All victims abducted during the recent attack on Unguwar Mantau in Malumfashi were among those freed. Sadly, he disclosed that one child lost his life during the ordeal.

The Commissioner said the breakthrough demonstrated renewed momentum in security operations across Katsina, stressing that the strike was part of a broader strategy to dismantle bandit networks, destroy their hideouts, and end the cycle of killings, kidnappings, and extortion in the state.

“The Katsina State Government, through the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, commends the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, and all security agencies for their courage and professionalism in this fight. Their sacrifices are steadily reclaiming Katsina’s towns and villages from the grip of criminals,” Mu’azu stated.

He assured that the government would continue to provide support through logistics, intelligence sharing, and community engagement while urging citizens to remain vigilant and provide timely information to aid ongoing operations.

“With the bravery of our forces and the resilience of our people, Katsina will overcome these enemies of peace and achieve lasting stability,” he added.