Troops ‘rescue’ 10 women, six children in Katsina — after 44 days in captivity

The Katsina government says 10 women and six children who were among those abducted in the state last month by bandits, have been rescued. 

The state government said they were rescued by the troops of the Nigerian Army from combat team 3 in the Maraban Kaigoran area of Katsina.

On February 3, at least 55 persons were kidnapped while escorting a bride to her matrimonial home along the Damari town in Sabuwa LGA of Katsina.

Some days later, a video clip appeared on social media wherein the abductors threatened to marry off the bride if she was not rescued.

In the video, the leader of the bandits could be seen wielding a gun, issuing threats, and barking out instructions.

“Anyone who thinks he can rescue them should try. And stop lying by saying 53 people were taken. We have 63 people with us here,” the bandit had said.

In a statement on Monday, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, chief press secretary (CPS) to the governor of Katsina, said those rescued have been handed over to the chairman of Sabuwa LGA, who will reunite them with their relatives.

Mohammed said Dikko Radda, governor of Katsina, commended the troops for exhibiting courage during the rescue operations.

“Military troops from Combat Team 3 stationed in Maraban Maigora, Katsina State, rescued 10 women and six minors who had been held captive by bandits since 3rd February 2024,” the statement reads.

“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.

“According to the military officer, the rescued victims were among the 54 women abducted along Gamji-Dandume road in early February 2024.

“Following their rescue, the rescued women and children were promptly handed over to the Chairman of Sabuwa LGA, who in turn reunited them with their relatives.”