The Katsina State Government has disclosed that fresh intelligence has emerged in the abduction of former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.), and his wife, as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue the couple and other victims.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Zango, the government said investigations suggest the kidnapping was a carefully planned operation by an organised criminal network rather than a random attack.

According to preliminary findings, the retired military officer and his wife were allegedly placed under surveillance and trailed from Kaduna before they were intercepted by their abductors.

Governor Dikko Radda has directed security agencies to give top priority to the rescue operation, with authorities expressing confidence that ongoing efforts will lead to a breakthrough.

The government said the targeted nature of the attack has provided investigators with valuable intelligence that is now guiding security operations.

Officials noted that the level of planning involved in the abduction points to an evolving strategy among criminal groups operating in the region.

Consequently, security forces are deploying a combination of technology-driven surveillance, intelligence gathering and coordinated field operations to locate the kidnappers and secure the release of the victims.

The government described the abduction as an attack on a respected retired military officer who dedicated years to national service, stressing that those responsible would be tracked down and brought to justice.

It added that collaboration among the Nigerian Army, Police, intelligence agencies and other security formations has been strengthened to support the rescue mission.

While appealing to residents to share any useful information that could assist investigators, the state government assured the family of the retired general and the public that every available resource is being deployed to secure the victims’ freedom. Authorities also expressed optimism that the ongoing high-level operation would soon deliver positive results. (The Sun, excluding headline)