At least eighty-four kidnapping victims were rescued from terrorist hideouts in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State during a joint military operation carried out by troops of the 17 Brigade and the Air Component of Operation Forest Sanity.
The rescued victims comprised seven males, 23 females, and 54 children.
The operation, which took place on March 18, 2025, at approximately 0900 hours, also led to the killing of three terrorists, while an unconfirmed number fled with varying degrees of injuries.
During the mission, security forces launched a deliberate advance and assault on the enclave of notorious terrorist leader Sanusi Dutsin-Ma, located in the Pauwa Highlands area of Kankara Local Government Area (LGA).
In a statement released on Thursday, Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Danmusa, stated that the operation included coordinated airstrikes on pre-identified targets, followed by ground troops advancing for offensive maneuvers.
Danmusa added that the troops encountered the terrorists at Malori and Matalawa villages, engaging them decisively and forcing them to retreat further into the hills.
“At approximately 15:09 hours, the security forces arrived at the camp of Sanusi Dutsin-Ma and engaged in a firefight until about 1630 hours,” the commissioner said.
“Consequently, the security forces successfully rescued 84 captives comprising seven males, 23 females, and 54 children who had been held in terrorist camps. Pairs of camouflage uniforms and other suspicious items were also destroyed.
“The rescued individuals were provided immediate food assistance before being handed over to local government authorities for further care and reunification with their families”, the statement noted.
The Katsina State Government while commending the professional conduct of the troops who completed this operation with zero casualties on the government side, believed that the rescue of these civilians, especially the children, demonstrates a commitment to restoring peace and security across the state.
The Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, however, reaffirmed Governor Dikko Radda’s administration’s dedication to supporting all security agencies in their efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure the safety of all residents.