Nigerian military airstrikes free 76 hostages, including children
Nigeria’s military has freed over 70 hostages, including children, in a successful airstrike operation targeting militants in the northwest region
ABUJA, Nigeria — More than 70 hostages, among them children, have been rescued following precision airstrikes by Nigeria’s military on militants in the northwest region, according to local officials.
The airstrikes targeted areas around Pauwa Hill in Kankara, Katsina state, early on Saturday in a mission to apprehend a notorious kidnapper, as confirmed by Nasir Mu’azu, the state’s commissioner for internal security.
Among those rescued were hostages taken during an attack at a mosque in Unguwan Mantau where at least 50 individuals lost their lives, Mu’azu revealed.
Tragically, one child lost their life during the operation, the commissioner added.
Recent months have seen a rise in attacks in the northwest and north-central regions of Nigeria, with clashes between farmers escalating due to limited resources. A recent attack in the north-central region resulted in the deaths of 150 people.
The conflict has intensified in recent years, with reports of herdsmen arming themselves with advanced weapons, posing a greater threat to communities.
The military’s airstrikes are part of a comprehensive strategy to dismantle criminal operations, disrupt their networks, and end the cycle of violence, kidnappings, and extortion targeting innocent civilians.
In addition to the northwest operation, separate airstrikes in the region resulted in the elimination of 35 militants in a targeted offensive.
Despite efforts by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to combat jihadist activities, the threat persists, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Nigeria in addressing security concerns.
