Six residents kidnapped from a community in Katsina State have regained their freedom after an intervention by military troops who embarked on a fierce confrontation with the armed kidnappers.
The gang was subdued by the military men after which it abandon the captives and fled, allowing the troops recover the abductees, four women and two children who had spent more than three months in hostage.
The freed individuals, Umaima Isiaku, Amina Isiaku, Fatima Saidu, Huzaima Nasiru, Usman Surajo and Dauda Isiaku were rescued yesterday at Unguwan Doka in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State, a military source on Tuesday, disclosing that they victims were found after the gunmen hastily deserted their hideout when they couldn’t stand the superior firepower of the troops.
The source said the development highlights the growing impact of ongoing operations against terrorist and bandit groups in the region.
“The continuous offensive is denying the criminals safe havens and restricting their movement.
“As pressure mounts, they are increasingly abandoning camps, equipment and even captives in their attempts to evade troops,” the source said.
Meanwhile, during preliminary interviews with military personnel, the victims reportedly recounted how they were seized by bandits from their homes and subsequently moved through several locations during their captivity.
They said they endured difficult living conditions for months before military operations disrupted the activities of their abductors, creating an opportunity for their eventual rescue.
The military source added that the latest rescue demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated operations being carried out against criminal elements across the region.
“Our troops will sustain the momentum until these groups are completely dismantled,” the source said.
“The objective remains to protect communities, rescue victims and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”
As of the time of filing this report, the rescued persons are now receiving medical care and psychosocial support ahead of their reunification with family members.