Operation FASAN YAMMA Forces Kidnappers to Abandon Victim During Rescue Mission in Katsina
By Hassan Jinjiri / June 15, 2026
ABUJA, NIGERIA — The Nigerian military has successfully rescued Mrs. Amina Abubakar, wife of the late former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar, weeks after she was abducted alongside her husband by armed bandits in Katsina State.
The rescue operation, announced by the Defence Headquarters on Monday, marks a significant breakthrough in ongoing counter-banditry operations in the North-West, even as security forces continue efforts to track down the criminals responsible for the abduction and the death of the retired senior military officer.
According to military authorities, Mrs. Abubakar was recovered during a coordinated search-and-rescue operation conducted by troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA, with support from the Nigerian Air Force.
The operation came after weeks of intelligence gathering and sustained military pressure on criminal groups operating within the region.
How the Rescue Operation Unfolded
The Defence Headquarters disclosed that troops engaged the kidnappers during offensive operations around Tunga Village, where contact was established with the armed group holding the victim.
In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military said the sustained pressure mounted on the bandits ultimately forced them into retreat.
During the encounter, however, the abductors reportedly shot Mrs. Abubakar before abandoning her as troops closed in on their location.
“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,” the statement said.
Military officials noted that the kidnappers fled the area due to overwhelming operational pressure from advancing troops.
Victim Receiving Medical Treatment
Following her recovery, Mrs. Abubakar was immediately evacuated to a military medical facility where she is currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the encounter.
The Defence Headquarters confirmed that medical personnel are closely monitoring her condition and expressed optimism regarding her recovery.
According to the military, she is responding positively to treatment.
Security sources described her rescue as a morale-boosting development for both military personnel and communities affected by kidnapping and banditry activities.
Tragic End for Former Defence Spokesman
The rescue comes amid lingering grief over the death of Major General Rabe Abubakar, a respected retired military officer and former Director of Defence Information.
Abubakar was abducted alongside his wife during an attack by bandits in Katsina State several weeks ago.
Despite efforts to secure their release, the retired general reportedly died while in captivity, sparking widespread outrage and renewed concerns over the growing insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria.
His death highlighted the vulnerability of even high-profile individuals to the activities of heavily armed criminal groups operating across several states.
The late officer had served in various strategic military roles and was widely known for his contributions to military communications and public information management during his years of service.
Renewed Military Offensive Against Bandit Networks
The successful rescue operation underscores the military’s intensified campaign against bandit groups and terrorist elements operating across Nigeria’s troubled regions.
Operation FASAN YAMMA, which has been central to counter-banditry efforts in the North-West, has recorded a series of operations targeting criminal hideouts, logistics routes, and kidnapping syndicates.
Military authorities say intelligence-driven operations have increasingly disrupted the activities of armed groups involved in kidnappings, cattle rustling, and attacks on rural communities.
The Defence Headquarters reiterated that troops would continue aggressive operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring security in affected areas.
Security Challenges Persist in Katsina and Beyond
Despite recent military successes, security experts warn that kidnapping-for-ransom remains one of the most persistent security threats confronting Nigeria.
Katsina State, along with neighbouring Zamfara, Sokoto, Kaduna, and parts of Niger State, continues to experience attacks by armed groups exploiting difficult terrain and weak local security infrastructure.
Analysts argue that while military operations have degraded some criminal networks, long-term success will require stronger intelligence coordination, improved border security, community engagement, and sustained economic interventions.
The abduction and subsequent death of a retired major general have further underscored the need for comprehensive security reforms capable of protecting both public officials and ordinary citizens.
Armed Forces Vow to Hunt Down Perpetrators
The Armed Forces of Nigeria have vowed to continue pursuing those responsible for the kidnapping and killing of Major General Abubakar.
According to Major General Uba, troops have been directed to intensify ongoing operations not only in Katsina State but across all theatres where terrorists and bandits continue to threaten national security.
Military authorities insist that those responsible will be identified, tracked, and brought to justice.
The statement also reaffirmed the military’s commitment to supporting Mrs. Abubakar and her family as she recovers from the traumatic ordeal.
The rescue of Mrs. Amina Abubakar represents a rare victory amid Nigeria’s ongoing battle against banditry and kidnapping. While the operation brings relief to her family and colleagues of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, it also serves as a painful reminder of the devastating human cost of insecurity. As military forces intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the country, Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether sustained operations can translate into lasting security and justice for victims of violent crime.
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