The Katsina State Government has announced the successful rescue of four kidnap victims by troops of the Nigerian Army.

It said that the victims, aged 36 to 68, were rescued during ongoing operations targeting a suspected notorious bandit leader, one Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani, and members of his criminal gang.

The government explained that they regained their freedom during sustained military offensives in locations believed to be hideouts of the bandits.

The victims were said to have received immediate medical attention for gunshot wounds sustained while in captivity.

The latest breakthrough comes weeks after security forces rescued the wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar.

The newly rescued victims were said to be among those previously seen in a photograph alongside the late military officer during their captivity.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, commended the courage, professionalism, and dedication of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies involved in the operation.

He said the success underscores the determination of security forces to dismantle criminal networks responsible for banditry and kidnapping across the state.

Mu’azu assured residents that security operatives remain on the trail of the notorious bandit leader and other criminal elements, stressing that ongoing operations will continue until those responsible for terrorising innocent citizens are apprehended and brought to justice.

The commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda to safeguard lives and property, noting that the state government will continue to collaborate closely with security agencies to deny criminals any safe haven within Katsina State.

General Abubakar was on his way to his hometown when he was abducted alongside his wife along the Katsina–Matazu road on May 30, 2026.

In a statement issued on June 13, 2026, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Katsina State, Nasiru Mu’azu, said the retired military officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.

The deceased was laid to rest at about 6p.m. at the Gidan Dawa Cemetery, located opposite his residence in Katsina metropolis, following funeral prayers attended by a large crowd of mourners. (Channels)