Nigerian Military Rescues 76 Hostages in Katsina, Dozens of Militants Killed

By Diafa Doubra,

The Nigerian military has announced a major breakthrough in the fight against insurgency and banditry in the northwest after conducting precision airstrikes in Katsina State that led to the rescue of 76 hostages, including women and children.

According to official reports, the operation took place near Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area, where armed groups had been holding captives. Military intelligence had tracked the movement of the gunmen before launching the air raid that neutralized several of the criminals and created an opening for ground troops to free the abducted victims.

Some of those rescued were believed to have been taken during a recent mosque attack in the region that left at least 50 worshippers dead. Tragically, one child did not survive the rescue mission.

In a related strike, troops also confirmed the killing of 35 militants, who were part of armed gangs responsible for kidnappings and violent attacks in Katsina and neighboring states. The military said the success of the operation highlights its renewed commitment to dismantling criminal networks operating in the northwest.

Security analysts have described the rescue as a significant morale boost for residents of Katsina, who have endured years of raids, abductions, and killings by bandits. However, they also warned that sustained operations and community cooperation would be necessary to achieve lasting peace in the region.

Families of the rescued hostages are now being reunited with their loved ones, while medical teams have been deployed to provide treatment and counseling to victims, many of whom endured weeks in captivity under harsh conditions.