By Prosper Olayiwola
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF,) has struck in its ongoing manhunt for the notorious bandit kingpin Babaro and his gang behind the recent deadly attack on Gidan Mantau in Malumfashi Local Government Area.
A statement by the Katsina cyommissioner for Internal Security, Nasir Muazu, said NAF carried out a decisive air operation at Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area, rescuing 76 kidnapped victims, including women and children. 
According to him, the precision air interdiction, conducted between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., specifically targeted Babaro’s stronghold at Pauwa Hill—one of his most notorious bases that has long been a source of terror to surrounding communities.
Confirming the development, the Ministry can reveal that the rescued victims included all those abducted during the attack on Unguwan Mantau in Malumfashi.
However, it was regrettably noted that one child tragically lost his life during the ordeal.
This breakthrough reflects the renewed momentum of security operations across Katsina State.
The strike is part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal hideouts, weaken their networks, and put an end to the cycle of killings, kidnappings, and extortion that have plagued innocent citizens.
”The rescue of the kidnapped victims further underscores the effectiveness of coordinated air and ground operations, as security forces intensify their efforts to flush out bandits and restore confidence among the people.”
