By Zagazola Makama

Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have destroyed the enclave of a notorious bandit kingpin, Babaro, at Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State.

The precision air strike, carried out between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Thursday, led to the rescue of 76 kidnapped victims, including women and children.

The Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs in Katsina State, confirmed the development in a statement on Saturday, noting that the rescued persons included all those abducted during the recent attack on Unguwan Mantau in Malumfashi LGA.

The statement however regretted that one child lost his life during the ordeal.

Babaro and his gang have been linked to a series of deadly attacks and abductions in parts of Katsina State, including the recent killings in Gidan Mantau.

The Ministry described the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against banditry, noting that it reflected the renewed momentum of joint security operations across the State.

“The rescue of the kidnapped victims underscores the effectiveness of coordinated air and ground operations,” it said.

The statement commended the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their sacrifices and professionalism in reclaiming communities from criminal gangs.

The Katsina State Government pledged continued support through logistics, intelligence-sharing and community engagement, while urging citizens to remain vigilant and provide timely information to aid security operations.