The Nigerian Air Force has freed 76 people, including women and children, after an air strike on a gang hideout in Katsina State, authorities said on Saturday.
The strike hit Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area as part of a search for a gang leader known as Babaro, who has been linked to a mosque attack in the town of Malumfashi last week.
“One child died during the rescue,” the Katsina State Internal Security Ministry said in a statement, adding that it was not clear if there were other casualties among the hostages or gang members.
The Air Force did not immediately respond to calls or messages from Reuters seeking comment.
The operation is part of wider efforts to curb armed groups that have targeted villages in northwest Nigeria for years.
(This is a developing story)
