The Nigerian military has successfully conducted precision airstrikes in the northwest region, freeing 76 hostages, including children, from militant captivity. The rescued hostages include some of those kidnapped during an attack on a mosque in Unguwan Mantau, which resulted in the death of at least 50 people.
According to Nasir Mu’azu, Katsina state’s commissioner for internal security, “However, it was regrettably noted that one child tragically lost his life during the ordeal.” The airstrikes were launched on targets around Pauwa Hill, located in the Kankara area of Katsina state, in the early hours of Saturday. The air assault was part of a manhunt for a notorious kidnapper.
The Nigerian military’s operation resulted in the death of 35 militants in separate airstrikes in the northwest region. The conflict in the region has led to the death of around 35,000 civilians and the displacement of more than 2 million others, according to the United Nations.
The commissioner emphasized that the air assault is “part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal hideouts, weaken their networks and put an end to the cycle of killings, kidnappings, and extortion that have plagued innocent citizens.”
In other news, the Mali Supreme Court has made a ruling on the dissolution of political parties, which could have significant implications for the country’s political landscape.
Meanwhile, Kenya is set to receive compensation for a 2021 wildfire sparked by British military personnel. The African Nations Championship (CHAN) has also reached the semifinals, with several African nations competing for the top prize.