Security agencies in Katsina State have rescued 21 people who were abducted in separate incidents during a joint operation in Dargaza Hills, Danmusa Local Government Area, the state government said on Saturday.
The operation, conducted on February 21, was led by the Department of State Services alongside the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Police Force and the Community Watch Corps, according to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mua’zu.
Four suspects were arrested during the intelligence-led operation and are currently undergoing investigation, the statement said.
The rescued victims included 16 women, two men and three babies. Authorities said they were kidnapped from Gidan Sarkin Bayero Village in Musawa Local Government Area and other locations.
The operation targeted an enclave in Dargaza Hills believed to be linked to a bandit leader identified as Kamilu Chiroma, also known as Buzaru, according to the government.
The state government said 20 of the rescued victims were Christians and two were Muslims, describing the attacks as indiscriminate.
It said the suspects would face prosecution upon the conclusion of investigations.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda remains committed to ending banditry and restoring peace across the state, the statement added.
Authorities have not provided further details on the condition of the victims or the circumstances of their abduction.
