The Nigerian military has launched a search-and-rescue operation to locate and secure the release of Brig. Gen. Maharazu Tsiga (retd.), a former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
He was kidnapped yesterday by armed assailants in Tsiga village, Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Promptnews had reported that the abduction took place around 12:30 a.m. on Thursday during a three-hour attack, during which one person was killed, at least nine others were taken, and several homes were looted.
Eyewitness reports indicate that Tsiga appeared to be the primary target, as his family members were left unharmed.
Troops under the command of Brig. Gen. Babatunde Omopariola of the 17 Brigade have been deployed to comb the forests in pursuit of the kidnappers and to rescue the victims.
However, the Katsina State Police Command has not yet released an official statement regarding the incident.
In response to the growing threat of abductions, the Federal Government has activated the toll-free emergency number 112, allowing citizens to report security threats and kidnapping cases.
Maj. Gen. Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the Counter-Terrorism Centre, has urged the public to utilize the hotline to assist security agencies in their operations.
Although there has been a reported 16.3% decrease in kidnapping incidents in 2024, the number of victims has slightly increased, with Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara states recording the highest cases.
Authorities have pledged to intensify counter-kidnapping efforts and dismantle ransom-driven criminal networks in 2025
(Prompt news)