Military Rescues Wife of Slain General as Bandits Flee Under Heavy Pressure

Military Rescues Wife of Slain General as Bandits Flee Under Heavy Pressure

By Muhammad Musa

Troops of the Nigerian Army, backed by the Nigerian Air Force, have rescued Mrs. Amina Abubakar, wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, following a sustained military operation against bandits in Katsina State.

Mrs Abubakar was abducted alongside her husband several weeks ago. Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, was later killed by the abductors, sparking widespread condemnation and renewed calls for stronger action against criminal groups operating in the region.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced the rescue on Sunday, describing it as the outcome of intensified search-and-rescue efforts by troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA.

In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military said troops established contact with the bandits during offensive operations around Tunga Village, where pressure mounted on the criminals and eventually forced them to abandon their captors.

According to the statement, the bandits shot Mrs Abubakar before fleeing as troops advanced on their position.

“During the encounter, the bandits shot Mrs Abubakar before abandoning her and fleeing due to the overwhelming pressure from advancing troops,” the statement said.

The military said the rescued victim was immediately evacuated to a military hospital, where she is receiving treatment.

“She is responding positively to treatment, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to ensuring her full recovery while providing all necessary support to her family during this difficult period,” the statement added.

The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its determination to pursue those responsible for the abduction and other acts of violence.

Military authorities said troops would continue ongoing operations to track down the perpetrators and intensify efforts to eliminate terrorist and bandit activities in Katsina State and other troubled parts of the country.

The rescue comes amid renewed military offensives targeting criminal groups across the North-West, where security forces have stepped up coordinated ground and air operations aimed at restoring peace and protecting vulnerable communities.