Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation FANSAN YANMA have rescued Amina Abubakar, the wife of late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, following a fierce encounter with armed bandits in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Security sources told THE WHISTLER that the rescue operation was carried out under Operation CLEAN SWEEP III after intelligence-led offensives were launched in Matazu and neighbouring communities following the abduction of the retired senior officer and his family.
According to the source, troops traced the bandits to Tunga village during a search-and-rescue mission and engaged the criminals, forcing them to flee under heavy military pressure.
The bandits reportedly shot Amina before escaping.
However, troops successfully rescued her, administered first aid and immediately evacuated her to a medical facility for urgent treatment.
Military sources said the victim was stabilised on the ground before being moved for further medical attention.
They added that follow-up operations have been intensified, with troops pursuing the fleeing bandits and suspected kingpins believed to be responsible for the attack and earlier abduction.
The military also assured that the ongoing clearance operation under Operation CLEAN SWEEP III would continue until all criminal hideouts in the area are dismantled.
Security authorities reiterated their commitment to tracking down those behind the attack and ensuring they are brought to justice.
(The Whistler)