Nigerian Army rescues hundreds in Borno, four in Katsina

Nigerian Army troops have rescued four kidnap victims during operations targeting a notorious bandit leader in Katsina State. The state government confirmed the rescue on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, stating the individuals were freed from a forest area where a senior military officer had previously been killed.

The rescued men are identified as Musa Yakuba, 62; Alhaji Saadu Dayi, 68; Mukhtar Danja, 36; and Salisu Danja, 50. They were recovered during sustained military operations aimed at tracking and apprehending bandit leader Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani and his gang, who are alleged to be responsible for numerous abductions. According to Dr. Nasir Muazu, the state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, the victims had sustained gunshot wounds during their captivity and received immediate medical attention upon rescue.

Officials noted that the victims had been held in the same kidnappers' den where retired Major General Abubakar Rabe, a former defence spokesman, was killed. The general's wife was rescued in an earlier operation.

The Katsina State Government commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their bravery and professionalism. In a statement,...