Nigerian Army Rescues Widow After Weeks in Captivity

Tue Jun 16 2026 14:06:01 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

After a week of abduction, Nigerian forces free the wife of retired Gen Rabe Abubakar who died in custody, highlighting the dangers of banditry in the north-west.

The army rescued Amina Abubakar after a week of kidnapping by suspected bandits in Katsina. During the operation she was shot but is now in a military hospital. Her husband, Maj Gen Rabe Abubakar, died earlier in captivity from health complications. President Tinubu warned of the threat posed by armed groups and the military pledged follow‑up action. The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by communities in north‑west Nigeria.

Army frees Amina Abubakar after capture in Katsina

After a week of abduction, Nigerian troops rescues the widow of Maj Gen Rabe Abubakar. The operation took place in the north‑western state of Katsina and ended with the wife being shot by the rescue teams before the bandits fled.

Amina Abubakar is now receiving treatment in a military hospital. Her husband died earlier in captivity, officials say the death was due to health complications linked to diabetes and high blood pressure.

The mission was part of intensified search‑and‑rescue operations, the military stated. Commander Samaila Uba said the armed forces would continue to hunt the kidnappers to prevent further incidents.

President Bola Tinubu expressed shock at the casualty and warned about the threat posed by criminal gangs. The region remains a hotspot for banditry, cattle rustling, and militant activity, a situation that Nigeria’s military is actively countering.

A footage previously circulated on social media showed the retirees calling for their release in exchange for captured bandits and their livestock. The government’s response to their claim was observed every day after the incident.