Troops rescue widow of former defence spokesman Rabe Abubakar

Military troops, backed by air support from the Nigerian Air Force, have rescued Mrs Amina Abubakar, wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted by bandits alongside her husband several weeks ago in Katsina State.

The Defence Headquarters announced the rescue on Monday, saying the operation was carried out following intensified search-and-rescue efforts by troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA.

In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military said troops engaged the kidnappers during sustained offensive operations at Tunga Village, leading to the successful recovery of Mrs Abubakar.

“The rescue operation followed intensified search-and-rescue efforts conducted by troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA. During sustained offensive operations and pressure mounted on the criminal elements, troops made contact with the bandits at Tunga Village, leading to the successful recovery of Mrs Abubakar.

“In the course of the encounter, the bandits shot Mrs Abubakar before abandoning her and fleeing due to the overwhelming pressure from advancing troops,” the statement partly said.

According to the military, the bandits abandoned the victim after shooting her as troops intensified pressure on the criminal group.

Following the rescue, Mrs Abubakar was evacuated to a military medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment.

“Mrs Abubakar was immediately evacuated and is currently receiving medical attention at a military hospital, where she is responding to treatment,” Uba stated.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria assured the public that it would continue to support her recovery and provide assistance to her family.

“The leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria remains committed to ensuring her full recovery and is providing all necessary support to her family during this difficult period,” the statement added.

The military also reiterated its commitment to pursuing those behind the abduction and other acts of banditry across the country.

“Troops will continue ongoing operations to track down and neutralise the perpetrators, while intensifying efforts to rid affected communities of terrorists not just in Katsina but in the entire nation,” Uba said.

Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, died in captivity.

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