Security operatives in Katsina State have rescued 21 kidnap victims and arrested four suspects during a joint intelligence-led operation in Dargaza Hills, Danmusa Local Government Area.
The operation, led by the Department of State Services (DSS) in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police Force and the Community Watch Corps, targeted an enclave linked to a notorious bandit leader identified as Kamilu Chiroma, also known as Buzaru.
According to the state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mua’zu, the rescued victims included 16 women, two men and three babies who were abducted from Gidan Sarkin Bayero Village in Musawa Local Government Area and other locations.
He said 20 of the victims are Christians, while two are Muslims, describing the development as evidence of the indiscriminate nature of banditry and reiterating the government’s resolve to protect all residents regardless of religious affiliation.
The four suspects arrested during the operation are currently undergoing investigation and will face prosecution upon conclusion of the process, the commissioner said.
Mua’zu noted that the success of the mission underscored the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the growing synergy among security agencies operating in the state.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda to ending banditry and restoring lasting peace across Katsina State, while commending the DSS, the Army, the Police and the Community Watch Corps for their professionalism and courage during the operation.
