Troops Rescue Widow of Late Defence Spokesman from Bandits

Troops of the Nigerian Army, with support from the Nigerian Air Force, have rescued Hajiya Amina Abubakar, wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, from bandits’ captivity.

Major General Abubakar was reportedly abducted alongside his wife a few weeks ago and later died while in the custody of the kidnappers.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the rescue followed intensified search-and-rescue operations conducted by troops of Operation Fansan Yamma, the military’s anti-banditry operation in the North-West.

According to the statement, troops tracked the bandits to their hideout in Tunga Village, Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State where the victim was being held.

As troops advanced on the location, the bandits allegedly shot Mrs Abubakar before abandoning her and fleeing the scene under pressure from the advancing forces.

The troops immediately secured the area, rescued her, and administered first aid after confirming that she had survived the gunshot wound.

Mrs Abubakar was subsequently evacuated to a military hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively, according to the military authorities.

Major General Uba said the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to ensuring her full recovery and are providing the necessary support to her family during this difficult period.

He added that troops would continue ongoing operations to track down and neutralise those responsible for the abduction while intensifying efforts to rid affected communities of terrorists and bandits across Katsina State and other parts of the country.