Military troops in Katsina Frees Four Captives, Dislodges Armed Gang

A coordinated military operation in Katsina State has led to the rescue of four individuals who had been held captive by armed criminals, as security forces intensify efforts to dismantle terrorist hideouts across the North-West.

The successful mission was carried out by troops operating under Operation Fansan Yamma during a recent assault on a criminal enclave in Matazu Local Government Area.

Security sources disclosed that the operation followed intelligence gathered through aerial surveillance, which identified the location of a suspected terrorist base in Fafu village. Acting on the information, a combined force comprising personnel of the 17 Brigade Strike Group, the Quick Response Force and the 8 Division Special Forces launched a targeted offensive against the hideout.

On approaching the location, the troops encountered resistance from armed elements occupying the camp. A gun battle subsequently ensued, forcing the suspects to abandon their position and flee as military personnel gained the upper hand.

Following the confrontation, soldiers conducted a sweep of the area and discovered four kidnap victims who had been held at the camp. The rescued individuals, whose ages range from 36 to 68 years, were safely evacuated from the scene.

The victims were transported to the military's Forward Operating Base in Matazu, where they were received by the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Sector 2 Commander of Operation Fansan Yamma, Maj.-Gen. Bamidele Koughna.

Medical assessments carried out after the rescue revealed that the victims had suffered injuries during their captivity. They received initial treatment from military medical personnel before being transferred to the Federal Teaching Hospital in Katsina for advanced care.

Investigators have since established that the victims were abducted in April while travelling along the Matazu-Karaduwa route near Sabon Sara. Their accounts provided fresh insight into activities within the criminal camp.

According to security officials, the rescued individuals disclosed that they were detained alongside the late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife during their time in captivity.

The development represents another breakthrough in the ongoing campaign against banditry and terrorism in Katsina State, where security forces have sustained pressure on criminal groups responsible for kidnappings and attacks on communities.

Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to expanding offensive operations across identified flashpoints, stressing that efforts would continue until terrorist cells and bandit networks in the region are significantly weakened.

Officials also expressed confidence in the capability and determination of troops involved in the operation, noting that personnel remain focused on restoring security and protecting residents from criminal activities.