Troops of the Nigerian Army engaged in Operation Clean Sweep III have rescued four kidnapped victims during a coordinated offensive targeting the criminal network of notorious bandit leader Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani in Katsina State.
The military disclosed on Wednesday that the rescue operation formed part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist enclaves and restore peace in communities affected by banditry across the state.
According to the Army, personnel of the 17 Brigade Strike Group and Quick Response Force, working alongside troops of the 8 Division Special Forces, carried out a deliberate assault on terrorist hideouts located in Fafu Village along the Matazu–Musawa corridor on Tuesday.
The operation was preceded by Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions conducted by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma. The aerial intelligence enabled troops to accurately locate and dominate the criminals’ stronghold before launching the ground assault.
During the operation, soldiers engaged the bandits in an intense exchange of gunfire, overwhelming them with superior firepower. Unable to withstand the pressure, the terrorists abandoned their camp and fled the area.
The Army stated that troops subsequently conducted exploitation operations within the camp, leading to the successful rescue of four abducted victims who had been held captive by the criminals.
The rescued individuals were immediately evacuated to the Forward Operating Base in Matazu, where they were received by the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander of Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General BP Koughna.
The military commander reassured the victims of their safety and reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces to restoring lasting peace and security throughout Katsina State and other troubled areas.
Some of the victims were found to have sustained gunshot injuries allegedly inflicted by their captors during their period in captivity. They received initial treatment before being transferred to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, for advanced medical care.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims had been abducted on April 14, 2026, from Sabon Sara along the Matazu–Karaduwa Road.
The Army further revealed that the rescued victims were held in the same captivity location as the late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife, who were abducted earlier this year.
Security forces said operations are continuing to track down Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani and members of his criminal network.
According to the military, troops remain committed to sustaining offensive operations against terrorists and bandits until those responsible for attacks on innocent citizens are either captured or neutralised.
The Army reaffirmed its determination, alongside other security agencies, to deny criminal groups any safe haven and ensure the safety of communities across the country.
