The abduction of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife, Mrs. Amina Abubakar, on May 30, 2026, in Matazu, Katsina State, shocked the nation. While the general’s death in captivity made headlines, the story of his wife’s survival and dramatic rescue has remained less detailed — until now.
Mrs. Abubakar endured 14 harrowing days in the hands of bandits. During this period, she watched her husband’s health deteriorate rapidly due to diabetes and hypertension, with no access to medication or proper care. The couple was moved frequently between hideouts under harsh forest conditions.
The Rescue Operation at Tunga Village
On June 13–15, 2026, troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA, acting on credible intelligence, tracked the bandits to Tunga village. In the ensuing encounter, the kidnappers opened fire and fled.
During the chaos, the bandits shot Mrs. Abubakar before abandoning her. A military source directly involved in the operation described the moment as reported by Arise TV.
“The bandits shot her and fled when we made contact at Tunga village. We have rescued Mrs. Abubakar. She is bleeding, we have given her first aid and are moving her for urgent medical attention.”
She was immediately stabilised in the field and evacuated for proper medical treatment. Reports confirm the bullet wound was serious but not immediately life-threatening.
Credible Sources Confirming the Rescue
– Zagazola Makama (respected military correspondent) provided one of the earliest detailed accounts, quoting the military source directly.
– Channels TV and Punch NG all reported the rescue, confirming the operation in Tunga village and that Mrs. Abubakar was shot before being abandoned by the fleeing bandits.
