Troops of Operation MESA, comprising personnel of the 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigeria Police, have successfully rescued seven kidnapped victims during a prompt response operation in Tsanyawa Local Government Area of Kano State.
According to Captain Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, the operation was launched following a distress call received at about 2300 hours on 29 November 2025 from Yankamaye Cikin Gari village, alerting security forces to bandit activities. Troops swiftly mobilised, made contact with the criminals and rescued seven victims. Unfortunately, the bandits had already killed a 60-year-old woman before troops arrived.
Following the initial rescue, the soldiers pursued the fleeing bandits along their withdrawal route towards Rimaye, engaging them with heavy fire. Although several victims were secured, four others remain unaccounted for, and efforts to locate them are ongoing.
The bandits reportedly escaped toward Kankia Local Government Area in Katsina State, and security forces have intensified efforts to track their movements.
The Commander, 3 Brigade, commended the troops for their bravery, professionalism and quick response, urging the public to continue supporting ongoing operations with credible and timely information.
