Troops rescue wife of General Abubakar Rabe after gun battle with bandits in Katsina

Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA have rescued Mrs. Abubakar, wife of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, following a fierce encounter with armed bandits in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The rescue operation was disclosed by security analyst Zagazola Makama in a report shared on his verified X account on Monday night.

According to the report, the mission was carried out under Operation CLEAN SWEEP III following intelligence-led offensives launched across Matazu and neighbouring communities after the abduction of the retired military officer’s wife.

Security sources revealed that troops tracked the kidnappers to Tunga village, where they engaged the armed group during a search-and-rescue operation.

The bandits reportedly came under intense military pressure and fled the area after a gun battle with the troops.

A military source quoted in the report said the kidnappers shot Mrs. Abubakar before abandoning her and escaping.

“The bandits shot her and fled when we made contact at Tunga village. We have rescued Mrs. Abubakar. She is bleeding. We have given her first aid and are moving her for urgent medical attention,” the source said.

The rescued victim is currently receiving medical attention, while security operatives continue efforts to track down the fleeing suspects.