How Troops Rescued Late Gen. Rabe Abubakar’s Widow From Bandits, Injured During Gunfire

Troops of the Nigerian Army, supported by the Nigerian Air Force, have rescued Mrs. Amina Abubakar, wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, from bandits’ captivity.

The rescue followed a coordinated operation conducted by troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.

Mrs. Abubakar and her husband were abducted by armed bandits a few weeks ago in Katsina State.

Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, later died during the incident.

Details of the rescue operation

The Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, disclosed on Monday that the rescue was achieved through sustained search-and-rescue operations.

He said troops intensified offensive operations and maintained pressure on criminal elements, which led to contact with the kidnappers at Tunga Village.

According to Major General Uba, the operation resulted in the recovery of Mrs. Abubakar.

He stated that during the encounter, the bandits shot her before fleeing due to pressure from advancing troops.

“Mrs. Abubakar was immediately evacuated from the area and transported to a military medical facility for urgent treatment,” the Defence Headquarters said.

Medical status and military response

The Defence Headquarters confirmed that Mrs. Abubakar is currently receiving medical attention at a military hospital and is responding to treatment.

The Armed Forces said all necessary medical care and support are being provided to aid her recovery, and assistance is also being extended to her family during the period.

“The leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria remains committed to ensuring her full recovery and is providing all necessary support to her family,” the statement added.

Security forces said efforts are ongoing to locate the fleeing bandits and other members of the criminal network involved in the abduction.

The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining military operations aimed at neutralising terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal groups across the country.

Troops will continue offensive operations in Katsina State and other affected regions as part of broader efforts to restore peace and security, the military said.

The rescue comes amid intensified campaigns against banditry and kidnapping in the North-West and other parts of Nigeria, where security forces have reported a series of operational activities in recent months.