Nigerian security forces have successfully rescued a mother and her infant child following a kidnapping incident in Katsina State, demonstrating continued efforts to combat banditry in the region.

Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA, in collaboration with the Katsina State Civilian Watch Committee (KSCWC) and local vigilante groups, foiled a bandit attack in Ringin Gora village, Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State on Monday night.

According to security sources who spoke to counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, armed bandits stormed the village around 8:30 p.m. on Monday, May 20, and abducted 22-year-old Saratu Abdullahi along with her child.

Upon receiving distress calls, security forces quickly mobilized and launched a pursuit operation against the perpetrators. The coordinated response put significant pressure on the bandits, forcing them to abandon their captives and flee into the surrounding bush.

"The mother and child were rescued unhurt and safely returned to their community," the source confirmed, bringing relief to residents who had been gripped with fear following the attack.

This successful operation represents the latest in a series of counter-banditry efforts by the military in Nigeria's North-West region, which has been plagued by kidnappings and armed attacks in recent years.

Security authorities have reiterated their commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against banditry and other forms of criminality across Katsina State and beyond, as part of broader efforts to restore security in rural communities.

The rescue operation highlights the importance of collaboration between military forces and local security initiatives in combating the security challenges facing communities in northern Nigeria.