Nigerian Military Rescues 76 Hostages, Child Killed in Katsina Operation

Nigeria's military conducted an airstrike on Pauwa Hill in Katsina state's Kankara area, successfully rescuing 76 kidnapped individuals, including women and children, from criminal gangs known as 'bandits.' The operation targeted a notorious gang leader linked to a recent deadly mosque attack that killed at least 50 people. Tragically, one child captive died during the rescue, though the number of casualties among the bandits remains unclear. This mission is part of broader efforts by the Nigerian government to dismantle armed groups responsible for kidnappings, killings, and extortion in the northwest region, which has seen escalating violence fueled by conflicts over land and water rights. Despite these efforts, militancy and kidnappings persist, with additional airstrikes killing 35 militants in separate operations. The crisis is compounded by a long-running insurgency in Nigeria's northeast, which has caused significant civilian deaths and displacement.