Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued five abducted women, including a mother and her infant, during a clearance operation in Madaci Forest, Katsina State.

The operation, conducted as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal hideouts and rescue victims of abduction, led troops to the forest where the five victims were found and brought to safety.

Among those rescued was a mother who was found with her infant, highlighting the vulnerability of women and children caught up in kidnapping incidents across parts of the state.

The successful operation adds to ongoing security efforts by the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to deny criminal elements access to forest routes and hideouts used for kidnapping and other criminal activities.

The rescued victims are expected to receive necessary medical attention and support as authorities work to facilitate their safe reunification with their families.

The Army has continued to intensify operations in parts of Katsina State and other areas affected by banditry and abductions, with a focus on rescuing victims, disrupting criminal networks and restoring security to affected communities.