Seven kidnapped people are back to safety after troops under Operation MESA launched a late-night rescue in Tsanyawa Local Government Area of Kano State.
The rescue began around 11:00 p.m. on Saturday, 29 November 2025, when residents of Yankamaye Cikin Gari sent out an urgent call for help as bandits stormed their community.
Security agencies quickly mobilised, with soldiers working alongside the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigeria Police to confront the attackers.
By the time the troops arrived, the bandits had already taken several hostages and killed a 60-year-old woman.
In a statement, Captain Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director Army Public Relations for the 3 Brigade, said troops chased the fleeing gunmen along their escape route toward Rimaye.
READ ALSO: Troops Scour Niger Forests for Abducted Students
“The troops engaged them with a high volume of fire and successfully rescued the abducted victims,” he explained.
While seven hostages were freed during the operation, four others are still missing.
Captain Zubairu said the bandits escaped toward Kankia Local Government Area of Katsina State, noting that “efforts are ongoing to track their location.”
The 3 Brigade Commander praised the soldiers for what he called their “bravery and prompt response,” and urged residents to work closely with security agencies.
“We appeal to members of the public to provide timely and credible information that can assist ongoing efforts to curb criminal activity,” he said.
Security personnel have since increased patrols in the area, with search teams continuing efforts to find the remaining abducted residents.