Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under Operation FANSAN YANMA have rescued Amina Abubakar, wife of the late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, following a military operation targeting armed bandits in Katsina State.
Security sources said the rescue was carried out during a series of intelligence-driven offensives launched under Operation CLEAN SWEEP III in response to the abduction of the retired general and members of his family.
According to the sources, soldiers tracked the kidnappers to Tunga village in Matazu Local Government Area, where they encountered the armed group during a search-and-rescue mission.
A gunfight reportedly ensued as troops closed in on the suspects, forcing the bandits to abandon their position and retreat under heavy military pressure.
During the exchange of fire, Amina Abubakar sustained gunshot injuries allegedly inflicted by the fleeing kidnappers.
Despite the injuries, troops successfully secured her release from captivity and immediately provided emergency medical assistance at the scene before evacuating her to a healthcare facility for further treatment.
Military officials confirmed that she was stabilised before being transferred for specialised medical care.
Sources within the security establishment said troops have continued pursuit operations aimed at tracking down the fleeing bandits and dismantling networks linked to the kidnapping.
The ongoing offensive is also focused on apprehending suspected gang leaders believed to be responsible for the abduction and other criminal activities in the area.
Military authorities reiterated that clearance operations under Operation CLEAN SWEEP III remain active, with efforts concentrated on eliminating bandit enclaves and restoring security across affected communities.
They also assured residents that security forces would sustain pressure on criminal elements and work to ensure that all those connected to the attack are identified, apprehended and brought to justice.
