The Nigerian Army’s 17 Brigade on Saturday handed over nine rescued kidnap victims, including two nursing mothers, to the Katsina State Government. The victims, all residents of Katsina, were freed from captivity in Kaduna State after enduring three harrowing months in the hands of their abductors.
According to sources close to FRONTPAGE, the victims were initially kidnapped from Sabuwa Local Government Area of Katsina and were finally freed through a recent non-combat rescue operation conducted by the Nigerian Army in the Yankee Dandam Forest in Kaduna State.
Brigadier General Babatunde Omopariola, Commander of the 17 Brigade, represented by the Brigade’s Chief of Staff, Col. Yakubu Nwandiscas, highlighted the army’s commitment to both “kinetic” and “non-kinetic” strategies to address insecurity. “While kinetic operations involve direct combat, this rescue was achieved through non-kinetic means, emphasizing our dedication to peace options for criminals. However, this is also a warning; if they refuse to surrender, our kinetic operations will persist,” Omopariola said.
Receiving the victims on behalf of the Katsina State Government, Senior Special Adviser on Security Matters, Sa’idu Ibrahim Danja, praised the efforts of the army and other security agencies. He assured the victims of government support, stating that they would receive medical and psychological care before reuniting with their families. “Governor Dikko Umar Radda has directed comprehensive welfare support for all rescued victims, including medical care and psycho-social assistance. The children will be enrolled in school when eligible, and the women will have access to free medical care at state hospitals as long as needed,” he said.
One of the victims, Inusa Salisu from Sabuwa LGA, recounted his ordeal, explaining that he and his son were abducted while working on their farm. Held captive in Kaduna for 90 days, he revealed the tragedy of losing his 20-year-old son to the abductors. “Armed men took us to Yankee Dandam Forest in Kaduna. I was held for 90 days, and during that time, they killed my son and another captive. I am deeply grateful to the soldiers and the government for their efforts. May Allah reward them,” Salisu shared.
The handover ceremony, held by the 17 Brigade in Katsina, included a warm reception for the rescued victims, reflecting the community’s relief and gratitude for their safe return.
