The Katsina State Government has confirmed the escape of 62 kidnapped victims following a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) air strike on the camp of a notorious bandits’ kingpin, Muhammadu Fulani, in Danmusa Local Government Area.

The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, disclosed the development in a statement on Monday.

According to him, the targeted air raid was carried out on Saturday at about 5:10 p.m. in the Jigawa-Sawai area, near the Katsina–Zamfara border. The bombardment forced the bandits to abandon their stronghold, creating an opportunity for the abductees to escape.

“During interviews with the rescued victims, it was confirmed that the bandits fled as a result of the airstrike. The victims revealed that about 62 people escaped and took off in different directions,” Mu’azu said.

He explained that 12 of the victims are currently receiving treatment at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 others are under care at the Nigerian Army Forward Operational Base (FOB) in Kaiga Malamai.

Most of the victims, he noted, were abducted from Sayaya village during a night attack on Monday, August 11, 2025, by Fulani’s gang, which has been terrorising Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and parts of Kano State.

Mu’azu added that the Quick Response Wing of the NAF has been deployed to Bakori and Matazu Local Government Areas to stabilise the situation and prevent further attacks.

“Our troops are currently monitoring the situation for further rescue operations,” he said, assuring families that the victims will be reunited with their loved ones after undergoing medical examinations.