By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigerian Army successfully rescued 18 female kidnapping victims from the clutches of their captors, handing them over to the Katsina State Government.
The rescue operation follows the recent abduction of 55 wedding guests by suspected bandits along the Damari town in the Sabuwa Local Government Area of the state.
Brig.-Gen. Oluremi Fadairo, the Brigade Commander of the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Katsina, disclosed that troops conducted a daring rescue mission in the bandits’ strongholds at Yan-Tumaki and Dan-Ali forests.
After engaging the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, the soldiers managed to free the hostages successfully.
The rescued women were then handed over to Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, by Brig.-Gen. Fadairo.
Emphasising the Army’s commitment to restoring permanent peace in the state, Fadairo urged personnel to continue such rescue operations until all kidnapped victims are freed.
In response, Commissioner Mu’azu reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring lasting peace in Katsina State.
He acknowledged Governor Dikko Radda’s substantial investment in the security sector, which has yielded positive outcomes.
Mu’azu commended the military and other security agencies for their bravery and urged them to maintain their efforts. He also warned criminals to repent or face severe consequences, while assuring ongoing efforts to rescue other kidnapped individuals, including those taken from the wedding ceremony.
Furthermore, Mu’azu advised citizens, particularly those in frontline local governments, to avoid night travel for their safety.
He urged the public to provide vital information about criminals and their hideouts to aid security operations.
In a gesture of support, the governor presented N100,000 to each rescued victim to assist in their reintegration into society.
One of the victims, 13-year-old Firdausi Bishir, expressed gratitude to the soldiers and the Almighty for their rescue. She also thanked the governor for the financial assistance, which will aid in establishing businesses upon their return home.
Your reaction