58 victims rescued from armed bandits were officially handed over to the Kaduna State Government on Saturday by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. The handover ceremony took place in Kaduna, with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, presenting the victims to Sani Limankila, the Chief of Staff to Governor Uba Sani.
General Musa emphasized that the release was achieved without paying any ransom, showcasing the effectiveness of combined military and security operations. “This rescue was achieved through the combined efforts of the military and other security agencies,” he said, adding, “the operation utilized both kinetic and non-kinetic methods, underscoring the need for collective effort, not just military actions.”
The CDS highlighted the critical role of collaboration among key stakeholders, including the presidency, the NSA’s office, and the Ministry of Defence. He urged citizens to contribute to national security, stating, “If we do not work together, it will be extremely difficult to succeed. It’s a whole-of-society approach.”
The victims, who included 35 men and 23 women, were abducted from Gayam, Sabon Layi, and Kwaga villages in Katsina State’s Dan Musa council area. According to Major-General Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the victims endured forced marches through the dense Birnin Gwari forest under the control of a notorious bandit leader known as Janbros.
Following their rescue on November 14 by troops of the 1 Division, the victims were provided with medical attention and other essentials. Six individuals requiring hospitalization have since recovered and rejoined the group for the formal handover.
Sani Limankila expressed gratitude to the security forces for their dedication and called on citizens to support ongoing measures to combat insecurity and kidnappings. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring peace and safety for all residents.
