“NAF STRIKES DOWN 100 TERRORISTS, POLICE RESCUE KIDNAP VICTIMS IN KATSINA OPERATION”

Babatunji Wusu –

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) carried out a nighttime operation in the Kuka Shidda camp, located in the Faskari local government area of Katsina State, resulting in the elimination of over 100 terrorists. The operation, executed by troops from Operation Hadarin Daji, specifically targeted a criminal faction linked to notorious terrorist leader Yusuf Yellow and his associate Rabe Imani.

According to Ibrahim Kaula, spokesperson for the Katsina State governor, the airstrikes also destroyed more than 45 motorcycles. He highlighted that the recent air assault by the NAF in the Faskari-Kankara area had significantly disrupted the activities of the bandits, marking the third successful operation in the state.

Kaula further reported that a swift response from security forces thwarted a kidnapping attempt early on Sunday morning in the Jibia local government area, leading to the rescue of three hostages.

The statement partly read, “A credible police source disclosed that the distress call regarding abduction of some residents in Kwata area, Jibia local government area was received around 4:15 am.

“Without hesitation, a Supol led an APC patrol team to the scene. They arrived to find armed bandits holding three women captive. Acting swiftly, the team blocked the kidnappers’ escape route, leading to a confrontation. A gunfight ensued, pressuring the criminals to flee.

“Thankfully, all three kidnap victims – Ummulkhari Abubakar (23) Shafa’atu Abubakar (35), and Maryam Lawal (15) – were rescued unharmed. The team also ensured the safety of a six-month-old baby boy named Ismail Usman, who was among those abducted.

“The source indicates that the security forces exercised commendable restraint during the operation, expending only 14 rounds of ammunition and 20 smoke canisters.”

The statement emphasized that the swift response saved lives and sent a clear message to criminals that such acts will not be tolerated.

It further highlighted the NAF and local law enforcement’s firm commitment to protecting Katsina State’s citizens from criminal activities.