Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation FANSAN YANMA have rescued Amina Abubakar, wife of the late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, after a heavy gun battle with armed bandits in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
According to reports, security sources said the rescue was carried out during an intelligence-driven operation under Operation CLEAN SWEEP III, following the abduction of the retired military officer and members of his family.
The soldiers were said to have trailed the suspects to Tunga village, where they made contact and engaged them in a firefight that forced the bandits to retreat in disarray.
During the exchange, the abductors reportedly shot the victim before fleeing the scene.
Troops were, however, able to recover Amina Abubakar alive and immediately provided first aid before evacuating her to a medical facility for treatment.
Military officials confirmed that she was stabilised after arrival and is currently responding to medical care.
Sources further disclosed that follow-up operations have been intensified in the area, with troops pursuing the fleeing suspects and other members of the criminal network believed to have participated in the attack.
The Army reiterated that ongoing clearance operations under Operation CLEAN SWEEP III would continue across the region until all identified bandit hideouts are dismantled and the area is secured.
