Military rescues widow of late Major General Rabe Abubakar
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 17 Brigade have rescued Mrs. Rabe Abubakar, the widow of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted by bandits shortly before the retired senior military officer died in captivity.
According to reports, the rescue operation was carried out in Tunga Village, where troops encountered the armed bandits holding her captive. During the exchange, the kidnappers shot Mrs. Abubakar before fleeing as soldiers advanced on their position.
The troops immediately secured the area, rescued her and administered emergency first aid.
Military authorities said Mrs. Abubakar sustained gunshot wounds and was bleeding when she was rescued. She is currently receiving medical treatment.
The rescue comes days after the burial of Major General Rabe Abubakar, whose death while in captivity sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns over insecurity in parts of the country.
Following Major General Abubakar’s death, the Defense Headquarters’ Joint Task Force North West, under Operation Fansan Yamma, launched a major offensive operation, codenamed Operation Clean Sweep III, targeting terrorists and bandits operating in Matazu Local Government Area and neighbouring communities in Katsina State.
According to the military, the operation commenced on 14 June 2026 to locate and neutralise those responsible for the attack, dismantling criminal networks, and restoring security across the affected communities.
