The Nigerian Army has successfully rescued Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, the widow of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, following a military operation conducted by troops of the 17 Brigade in Katsina State.
Military sources disclosed that the rescue operation was carried out in Tunga Village, near Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State, where the victim had been held captive by suspected bandits since her abduction alongside her husband nearly two weeks ago.
According to the sources, troops acting on credible intelligence launched a coordinated operation and surrounded the bandits’ hideout in an effort to free the hostage.
However, as security forces advanced on the location, the armed criminals reportedly opened fire and shot Mrs. Abubakar before fleeing the scene.
The sources said soldiers swiftly secured the area, evacuated the victim and administered emergency first aid treatment before moving her to a medical facility for further care.
“Troops immediately secured the area, rescued her and provided emergency medical assistance. Although she sustained gunshot injuries and was bleeding at the time of the rescue, she survived and is currently receiving treatment,” a military source said.
The exact hospital where Mrs. Abubakar is receiving treatment was not disclosed for security reasons, but sources indicated that her condition is being closely monitored by medical personnel.
The rescue comes days after the death of her husband, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), who reportedly died while in the custody of the kidnappers.
His death sparked widespread condemnation and renewed calls for intensified military operations against criminal groups operating across the North-West region.
The retired senior military officer and his wife were abducted by armed bandits while travelling to Katsina State a fortnight ago.
Their kidnapping drew national attention, with security agencies mounting efforts to secure their release.
The successful rescue of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar is expected to provide some relief to family members and well-wishers who have been anxiously awaiting positive developments since the tragic incident.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army had yet to issue an official statement on the operation, while efforts to track down the fleeing bandits were said to be ongoing.
Security analysts have described the rescue as a significant breakthrough in the fight against banditry in the region and have urged continued collaboration between security agencies and local communities to curb the menace.