Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued four kidnapped victims during ongoing security operations targeting a notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani, and members of his criminal gang in Katsina State.
The Katsina State Government announced the development in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, who said the rescue was achieved during sustained military operations in areas believed to be used as hideouts by the bandits.
According to the statement, the rescued victims were identified as Musa Yakuba, 62; Alhaji Sa’adu Dayi, 68; Mukhtar Danja, 36; and Salisu Danja, 50.
Authorities disclosed that the victims were freed during ongoing efforts by security forces to track and apprehend Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani, who has been linked to banditry and kidnapping activities in parts of the state.
Following their rescue, the victims reportedly received immediate medical attention for gunshot wounds and other injuries sustained while in captivity.
The government noted that the operation forms part of broader security efforts aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating across Katsina State and restoring peace to affected communities.
Officials also recalled the earlier rescue of the wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was reportedly abducted by the same criminal network. According to the statement, the newly rescued victims had previously appeared in a photograph alongside the late military officer.
Commending the security forces involved in the operation, the Katsina State Government praised the courage, professionalism, and dedication of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies participating in ongoing counter-banditry operations.
“Their relentless efforts continue to yield positive results in the fight against banditry and kidnapping across the state,” the statement said.
The government assured residents that security personnel remain on the trail of Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani and other suspected criminal elements operating within and around the state.
It emphasized that ongoing operations would continue until those responsible for acts of violence, kidnapping, and terror against innocent citizens are apprehended and brought to justice.
Katsina State, like several states in Nigeria’s North-West region, has faced persistent security challenges in recent years, including bandit attacks, kidnappings for ransom, and assaults on rural communities.
The administration of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has continued to collaborate with federal security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve security operations, and enhance the protection of lives and property across the state.
The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that criminal groups have no safe haven within Katsina and urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information that could aid ongoing operations.
Security authorities expressed optimism that sustained military pressure and community cooperation would further weaken criminal networks and improve safety across affected areas.
