Nigerian military airstrikes free 76 hostages, including children
Dozens of Hostages Freed in Nigeria After Precision Airstrikes
ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — Nigerian authorities have announced the successful rescue of 76 hostages, including children, following precision airstrikes targeting militants in the country’s northwest.
Operation Against Notorious Kidnapper
The airstrikes were carried out around Pauwa Hill in the Kankara area of Katsina state early on Saturday, according to Nasir Mu’azu, the state’s commissioner for internal security. The operation was part of a manhunt for a notorious kidnapper.
Rescue of Mosque Attack Victims
Among the rescued hostages were individuals kidnapped during an attack on a mosque in Unguwan Mantau, where at least 50 people lost their lives, the commissioner confirmed.
Unfortunately, one child lost his life during the rescue operation, Mu’azu added.
Escalating Violence in Nigeria
Recent months have seen a rise in attacks on communities in Nigeria’s northwest and north-central regions, often stemming from conflicts over land and water resources. A deadly attack last month in north-central Nigeria claimed the lives of 150 people.
Authorities and analysts have noted an increase in violence, with herdsmen arming themselves with more sophisticated weapons.
Government’s Strategy
The air assault forms part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal hideouts, disrupt their networks, and end the cycle of violence, kidnappings, and extortion affecting innocent citizens, the commissioner explained.
Ongoing Insurgency
Nigeria is also grappling with an insurgency in the northeast that has resulted in the deaths of around 35,000 civilians and the displacement of over 2 million people, according to the United Nations.
Militant Casualties in Separate Airstrikes
On the same day, separate airstrikes in northwest Nigeria targeted militants, resulting in the deaths of 35 of them.
Despite efforts by President Bola Tinubu’s government to combat jihadi attacks, militancy continues to pose a threat in the region.
Author: Dyepkazah Shibayan, The Associated Press
