Gen. Rabe Abubakar’s Death: Army Launch Operation CLEAN SWEEP III In Katsina To Target Bandit Hideouts

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have commenced a military operation in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The operation, codenamed Operation CLEAN SWEEP III, is focused on dismantling criminal hideouts and logistics bases used by armed bandits and other criminal elements in the area.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the operation was launched following the abduction and killing of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar and the abduction of his wife by suspected bandits.

The military said the objective is to locate those responsible for the attack, dismantle criminal networks, and restore security in affected communities.

The operation began on June 14. Since then, troops have conducted fighting patrols, intelligence-led raids, cordon-and-search missions, and clearance operations across identified locations within the Joint Operations Area.

The military reported activities in the Dikkawa Hills area and surrounding communities, including Adua, Nasarawa, and Karaduwa.

During these missions, security forces said they identified and destroyed several facilities used by criminal groups to support their operations.

The Joint Task Force stated that the operation is being conducted in collaboration with other security agencies, sister services, and local stakeholders.

The command said this coordination has supported ongoing efforts to improve security in Katsina State.

The theatre command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting residents of Matazu and adjoining communities.

It said troops will continue operations to deny criminal groups freedom of movement in the region.

The military also appealed to members of the public to provide credible and timely information to security agencies.

It assured that information received would be treated confidentially.

“The troops will continue to sustain pressure on criminal elements until the operational objectives are fully achieved,” the statement said.

Military authorities said further updates will be provided as the operation progresses.