The Nigerian Air Force has carried out a major operation in Katsina State that freed dozens of people who had been living in captivity. The airstrike, launched on Pauwa Hill in Kankara, targeted a bandit hideout and led to the rescue of 76 hostages, mostly women and children. Many of them had been taken during recent attacks, including the violent raid on a mosque in Unguwan Mantau where worshippers were killed.

Sadly, not everyone made it out alive. Authorities confirmed that one child died during the rescue mission, casting a shadow over what was otherwise seen as a significant breakthrough.

Military officials said the strike was part of an intensified campaign against armed groups that have for years tormented communities in the northwest through kidnappings, raids, and killings. In a separate but coordinated action within the same region, another airstrike killed 35 militants.

This wave of operations comes at a time when banditry and insurgency remain some of the most pressing security challenges in Nigeria. Rural villages in states like Katsina, Zamfara, and Kaduna have suffered repeated attacks, forcing families to abandon their homes and live under constant fear. Officials believe that by dismantling strongholds such as the one in Kankara, they can begin to restore a sense of safety to affected areas.