The Katsina State government has announced the successful rescue of 10 women and six children who were abducted last month by bandits in the state.
According to the state government, the Nigerian Army’s combat team 3 carried out the rescue operation in the Maraban Kaigoran area of Katsina.
The abduction incident occurred on February 3 when a group of bandits kidnapped at least 55 individuals who were escorting a bride to her matrimonial home in Damari town, Sabuwa Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina.
Days after the abduction, a distressing video surfaced on social media featuring the bandits threatening to marry off the bride if their demands were not met. In the video, the bandit leader brandished a firearm and issued menacing threats.
Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor of Katsina, confirmed the rescue in a statement released on Monday. He revealed that the rescued individuals have been handed over to the chairman of Sabuwa LGA for reunification with their families.
Governor Dikko Radda commended the troops for their bravery and swift action during the rescue operation, praising their dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the state’s residents.
“A credible source from the military disclosed that the victims were rescued on Monday, 18th March 2024, during a routine patrol at the Rimi community,” the statement read.
“The rescued women and children were among the 54 individuals abducted along the Gamji-Dandume road in early February 2024. Following their rescue, they were promptly handed over to the Chairman of Sabuwa LGA for reunification with their relatives.”
