NAF goes after bandit kingpin, pounds enclave, rescues 76 captives as child dies during operation

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its hunt for the notorious bandit kingpin Babaro, launching an airstrike on his enclave in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State.

A statement signed by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, on Saturday confirmed that “this morning, the NAF carried out a decisive air operation at Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area, successfully rescuing 76 kidnapped victims, including women and children.”

The precision air raid, carried out between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., specifically targeted Babaro’s stronghold at Pauwa Hill — a base long feared by surrounding communities.

Authorities disclosed that the rescued victims included everyone abducted during the attack on Unguwan Mantau in Malumfashi Local Government Area. Sadly, one child was reported to have died during the ordeal.

According to the ministry, “this breakthrough reflects the renewed momentum of security operations across Katsina State. The strike is part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal hideouts, weaken their networks, and put an end to the cycle of killings, kidnappings, and extortion that have plagued innocent citizens.”

The government praised the joint efforts of security forces, noting that “the rescue of the kidnapped victims further underscores the effectiveness of coordinated air and ground operations, as security forces intensify their efforts to flush out bandits and restore confidence among the people.”

The statement further read: “The Katsina State Government, through the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, commends the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, and all security agencies for their courage and professionalism in this fight. Their sacrifices are steadily reclaiming Katsina’s towns and villages from the grip of criminals.

“We reaffirm our continued support through logistics, intelligence-sharing, and community engagement, ensuring these efforts are sustained until banditry is completely eradicated.

“We also call on citizens to remain vigilant and provide timely information that can assist ongoing security operations. With the bravery of our forces and the resilience of our people, Katsina will overcome these enemies of peace and achieve lasting stability.”