Shot by Bandits, Wife of Late Gen. Rabe Rescued by Troops
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KATSINA – Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation FANSAN YANMA have rescued Amina Abubakar, the wife of late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, after she was reportedly shot by bandits during a fierce encounter in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Security sources told THE WHISTLER that the rescue was carried out during Operation CLEAN SWEEP III, launched in response to the abduction of the late senior military officer and members of his family.
According to the sources, troops acting on credible intelligence tracked the bandits to Tunga village during a search-and-rescue mission and engaged them in a gun battle, forcing the criminals to flee under intense military pressure.
“The troops traced the kidnappers to their hideout and engaged them decisively. During the encounter, the bandits shot the victim before escaping,” a security source said.
Despite the injuries she sustained, Amina was successfully rescued by the troops, who immediately administered first aid before evacuating her to a medical facility for urgent treatment.
Military sources disclosed that the victim was stabilised at the scene before being moved for further medical attention.
“The rescued victim received immediate medical intervention from the troops before being evacuated to a hospital. She is currently receiving treatment,” the source added.
The rescue comes days after the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar in captivity, a development that sparked outrage and renewed calls for intensified operations against criminal gangs operating in parts of Katsina State.
Security officials said follow-up operations are ongoing, with troops pursuing the fleeing bandits and suspected kingpins believed to be responsible for the attack and earlier abduction.
The military also reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining Operation CLEAN SWEEP III until all criminal hideouts in the area are dismantled.
“We remain committed to tracking down those responsible for this crime and ensuring they face justice. Operations are ongoing and pressure is being mounted on the fleeing bandits,” the source said.
Authorities expressed optimism that the intensified offensive would lead to further breakthroughs in the fight against banditry and kidnapping across the state.