In a decisive security operation, troops from the Joint Task Force (JTF) Faruruwa have successfully rescued a kidnap victim and recovered several items from armed bandits along the volatile Kano-Katsina border. The operation, which took place in the early hours of Sunday, 28 December 2025, highlights the ongoing efforts to secure communities in the region.
Credible Tip-Off Leads to Swift Military Response
The successful mission was initiated following a credible tip-off received at about 1:00 a.m. on Sunday. Military authorities were alerted to the movement of armed bandits from the Daurawa and Kira areas of Katsina State, heading towards Kano. Major Zubair Babatunde, the Nigerian Army Public Relations Officer for 3 Brigade Kano, confirmed these details to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, troops operating from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Yankwada mobilized a fighting patrol. Their objective was clear: intercept the suspected criminals at the fringe of the Kano-Katsina border before they could inflict further harm on local communities.
Fierce Gun Battle and Bandits' Retreat
The military patrol made contact with the armed bandits at Ungwan Dogo and Ungwan Tudu. What followed was a fierce exchange of gunfire as the troops engaged the criminals. "The bandits were overpowered and forced to withdraw in disarray towards Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State," Major Babatunde stated.
This confrontation led to the immediate rescue of one kidnap victim, identified as Rabiu Halilu, 38 years old. Halilu had sustained a gunshot wound on his leg during his captivity. He was promptly evacuated to the JTF Faruruwa Medical Centre, where he is currently receiving treatment for his injuries.
Items Recovered and Sustained Security Efforts
In the aftermath of the gun battle, the fleeing bandits abandoned a number of items, which were recovered by the troops. The recovered items include:
- Three motorcycles used by the criminals.
- An undisclosed number of cattle believed to have been rustled from local farmers.
Major Babatunde emphasized that troops remain on high alert in the area. Patrols have been intensified to deter further criminal activities and to ensure sustained security for the border communities. This operation underscores the military's commitment to responding rapidly to intelligence and protecting citizens in Nigeria's North-West region.
