Security operatives have rescued 21 kidnap victims and arrested four suspected bandits during a coordinated intelligence driven operation in Dargaza Hills, located in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The operation, carried out by personnel of the Department of State Services in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Police Force and the Community Watch Corps, targeted criminal enclaves in the rugged hills known for harbouring bandit groups. The joint security team successfully penetrated the hideout and secured the release of the victims while apprehending four suspects who are currently undergoing investigation.
The rescued victims include 16 women, two men and three infants who were abducted from Gidan Sarkin Bayero Village in Musawa Local Government Area and neighbouring communities. Authorities said the victims had been held under difficult conditions before the timely intervention of security forces.
Officials disclosed that the operation specifically focused on dismantling the camp of a notorious bandit leader, Kamilu Chiroma, also known as Buzaru, whose group has been linked to several kidnappings and violent attacks in the area. The successful raid dealt a significant blow to the activities of the criminal network operating within the hills.
The Katsina State Government noted that the rescued victims included individuals of different religious backgrounds, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of banditry and reaffirming the government’s responsibility to protect all citizens regardless of faith, ethnicity or social status. It added that the suspects in custody would be prosecuted in accordance with the law after the conclusion of investigations.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs Dr Nasir Mua’zu, described the operation as a major breakthrough in the ongoing fight against banditry, emphasizing the growing effectiveness of intelligence led security interventions. He commended the courage, professionalism and coordination demonstrated by the security agencies involved in the mission.
The government also reaffirmed the resolve of Dikko Umaru Radda to end banditry and restore lasting peace across Katsina State. It assured residents that security operations would be sustained and intensified to ensure the safety of lives and property throughout the state.
