The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the successful rescue of Mrs. Amina Abubakar, the wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted alongside her husband by bandits several weeks ago.

The announcement was made on Monday in a statement issued by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information. According to the military, the rescue operation was carried out by troops of the Nigerian Army with support from the Nigerian Air Force under the ongoing operations of Operation FASAN YAMMA.

Mrs. Abubakar’s rescue comes after weeks of intensive search-and-rescue efforts launched following the tragic abduction that led to the death of her husband, a former Director of Defence Information and respected senior military officer.

‘Let The Common Man Feel This Court Is Truly His Last Hope’ – Tinubu Tells Judges

According to the DHQ, troops tracked the kidnappers to Tunga Village, where they engaged the criminal elements during a coordinated operation. The encounter resulted in a gun battle between security forces and the bandits.

Military authorities disclosed that as troops advanced and mounted sustained pressure on the kidnappers, the criminals attempted to escape. Before fleeing, however, they reportedly shot Mrs. Abubakar.

Despite the injury, the military said the bandits abandoned her due to the overwhelming offensive mounted by the troops.

The statement noted that Mrs. Abubakar was immediately recovered by security personnel and evacuated for urgent medical care.

“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,” the statement said.

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

Military officials confirmed that she is currently receiving treatment at a military hospital and is responding positively to medical care.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria also assured Nigerians that every necessary measure is being taken to support her recovery and provide assistance to her family during the difficult period.

The DHQ reiterated its commitment to bringing those responsible for the abduction and killing of Major General Rabe Abubakar to justice. Security forces, according to the statement, have intensified efforts to track down and neutralize the fleeing bandits.

The military further emphasized that ongoing operations against terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups would continue not only in Katsina State but across affected regions of the country.

The rescue has been viewed as a significant development in the ongoing fight against banditry, even as security agencies continue their efforts to dismantle criminal networks responsible for kidnappings and violent attacks nationwide.