Troops of Operation MESA under the 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have rescued seven kidnapped victims during a late-night operation in Tsanyawa Local Government Area of Kano State.
According to a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Captain Babatunde Zubairu, the incident occurred on 29 November 2025 at about 11:00 p.m. after troops received a distress call from Yankamaye Cikin Gari village over bandits’ activities.
The troops, operating alongside personnel of the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigeria Police, swiftly moved to the scene, made contact with the bandits, and rescued seven abductees. However, a 60-year-old woman was reportedly killed by the bandits before the arrival of security forces.
Following the initial engagement, troops pursued the fleeing bandits along their withdrawal route toward Rimaye, engaging them with heavy gunfire, which enabled the successful rescue operation. Four kidnapped victims remain unaccounted for as efforts continue to locate them.
The bandits were said to have escaped toward Kankia Local Government Area in Katsina State, with security forces intensifying efforts to track their movement.
The Commander of 3 Brigade commended the troops for their bravery and quick response, urging the public to continue supporting ongoing operations with timely and credible information.

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