The Katsina State Government has expressed optimism over the possible release of former Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar (retd.), and his wife, following intensified efforts by security agencies to secure their freedom.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Katsina, the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr Bala Salisu-Zango, said ongoing coordinated security operations had reached an advanced stage, boosting hopes that the abducted couple and other victims would soon be rescued.
Abubakar and his wife were kidnapped by suspected bandits along the Matazu Local Government Area axis while travelling through the state.
According to Salisu-Zango, Governor Dikko Radda promptly directed all relevant security agencies to prioritise the safe rescue of the retired general, his wife and other persons held captive by criminal groups.
The commissioner disclosed that preliminary investigations indicated that the abduction was a carefully planned and targeted operation.
He said available evidence suggested that the retired military officer and his wife were allegedly monitored and trailed from Kaduna, where they reportedly commenced their journey before the attack.
“The targeted nature of the crime points to a disturbing evolution in the tactics of criminal elements operating in the region. The precision with which the operation was executed suggests the involvement of organised criminal networks, and this understanding is shaping ongoing rescue efforts,” he said.
Salisu-Zango described the incident as an attack not only on a retired senior military officer who had served the nation with distinction but also on all law-abiding citizens.
He reaffirmed the state government’s determination to ensure that those responsible for the abduction are identified, apprehended and prosecuted.
“We are dealing with a targeted operation, which has influenced the nature of our response. Security agencies are working tirelessly, deploying intelligence resources, technology and coordinated field operations to track down the abductors.
“Our foremost priority remains the safe return of the retired general, his wife and other victims in captivity,” he stated.
The commissioner added that the state government had strengthened collaboration with the Nigerian Army, the Police and other security and intelligence agencies to achieve a successful rescue without compromising the safety of the victims.
He also appealed to members of the public to provide credible information on suspicious activities or movements connected to the incident, noting that such intelligence could assist in dismantling the criminal network behind the abduction.
Salisu-Zango urged the family of the retired general and residents of the state to remain calm, assuring them that every available resource was being mobilised to secure the release of the captives.
