The Katsina State Government has confirmed the escape of 62 kidnapped victims following an airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force on a notorious bandit camp in Danmusa Local Government Area of the state. 

The camp, located in Jigawa Sawai, a community bordering Zamfara, belonged to a wanted bandit kingpin, Muhammadu Fulani. 

A statement issued on Sunday in Katsina said the air operation, carried out on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at about 5:10 p.m., forced the bandits to flee their stronghold, giving the victims the opportunity to escape. 

According to the government, 12 of the victims are receiving medical attention at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 others are being sheltered at the Army Forward Operating Base in Kaiga Malamai. 

“The victims revealed that the bandits abandoned their camp during the airstrike, which enabled about 62 captives to escape in different directions,” the statement read.

“Most of the victims were abducted from Sayaya village during a night attack on Aug. 11 by Fulani’s gang, which has been terrorising communities in Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma and parts of Kano State.”

“The government added that troops were monitoring the area to consolidate on the operation and ensure further rescue of victims. 

It described the general security situation in the affected communities as calm. 

Gov. Dikko Umaru Radda commended the gallantry of security forces and assured families of the victims that they would be reunited with their loved ones after undergoing necessary medical examinations. 

He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting security agencies in the fight against banditry.