According to SA to President Tinubu, Bayo Onanuga in a post on Facebook on 15th June 2026, the Nigerian Army have rescued the wife of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, following an encounter with bandits in Matazu LGA of Katsina State.
He explained that the rescue took place after a shootout during which the military engaged the bandits. He further indicated that the operation was part of a broader, intelligence-led effort called Operation CLEAN SWEEP III, which was launched in Matazu and neighboring communities.
This operation was initiated specifically in response to the abduction incident involving the retired officer and his family, highlighting the military’s intensified efforts in the region.
Onanuga noted that the troops tracked the bandits to Tunga village, where they engaged in a search-and-rescue mission. During the encounter, the bandits shot Mrs. Abubakar and fled the scene under heavy military pressure. The military personnel provided her with first aid at the scene before evacuating her for urgent medical care.
He confirmed that follow-up operations have been reinforced, with security forces actively pursuing the fleeing bandits and suspected kingpins believed to be behind the attack and abduction.
The ongoing operations aim to dismantle all criminal hideouts, with authorities reaffirming their commitment to apprehending those responsible and delivering justice.
