The Nigerian Army’s 17 Brigade rescued 32 kidnapping victims and neutralised two insurgents during an offensive operation in the Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State, according to an operational report supplied to the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday.
The operation was launched after intelligence indicated the movement of a high‑profile terrorist leader, Muhammad Filani, through the area. Troops engaged the militants, overcame their resistance and killed two armed men identified as members of the terrorist cell.
In addition to the rescue, soldiers recovered a cache of weapons, ammunition and equipment, including two AK‑47 rifles, fifteen magazines, a fabricated grenade, a General‑Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) butt and assorted military accessories. Ten motorcycles and a stock of ammunition were also seized. The raid yielded 26 livestock, which authorities said would be returned to their owners after verification.
The rescued individuals comprised 10 women, nine men and 13 children. They are currently receiving medical assessment and will be transferred to the relevant civil authorities for further processing. The operation is part of a broader campaign by the Nigerian military to dismantle terrorist networks and restore stability in the northern region.
Katsina State has experienced a surge in kidnapping and armed robbery incidents in recent months, prompting the army to intensify joint security operations with local law‑enforcement agencies. The 17 Brigade’s action follows a series of similar strikes aimed at disrupting insurgent supply lines and apprehending high‑value targets.
The report noted that security forces will continue “exploitation” of the area – a term used by the army to describe sustained investigative and clearing activities – to prevent the re‑establishment of militant structures. Military officials stressed that the operation demonstrates the armed forces’ commitment to denying terrorists freedom of movement and ensuring the safety of civilians.
The successful rescue and seizure of arms highlight the effectiveness of intelligence‑driven tactics in the region. Authorities plan to increase community engagement and intelligence collection to further curb the activities of armed groups operating across northern Nigeria.
