The family of retired Major General Abubakar Rabe has expressed deep distress following the release of a video showing the former senior military officer and his wife in captivity at a forest hideout.
The retired general, a former Director of Defence Information, was abducted alongside his wife and driver while travelling to Katsina on May 30. Their vehicle was reportedly ambushed by armed men suspected to be bandits along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area.
According to reports, the attackers opened fire on the vehicle, injuring the driver before taking the general and his wife into the forest. The driver was later released after sustaining a gunshot wound.
A video later surfaced showing the couple in captivity, where they appeared to relay the demands of their abductors. The demands reportedly include the release of detained associates and the return of livestock allegedly seized during previous security operations.
In the footage, the retired general called for dialogue, suggesting that negotiations could help restore peace in the affected areas, while his wife appealed for the demands to be met to secure their release.
The video has sparked widespread concern among family members and residents, with relatives describing the situation as deeply traumatic and emotionally devastating. They appealed to authorities to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the couple.
Security analysts have also described the incident as a troubling reflection of worsening insecurity in parts of the North-West, warning that such high-profile abductions signal growing boldness among armed groups.
The abduction has further heightened fear in nearby communities, with residents expressing concern over their safety and the apparent reach of criminal networks operating in the region.
A security expert noted that the incident underscores the need for stronger intelligence operations and faster response strategies to counter armed groups.
In a separate development, the bandit leader linked to the abduction reportedly claimed in a recorded conversation that earlier negotiations were disrupted by increased security presence in the area. He also reiterated demands for the release of detained associates and return of seized livestock, while insisting that dialogue remains the preferred path to resolving the crisis.
Meanwhile, the Katsina State Government has expressed optimism that ongoing security operations will lead to the safe rescue of the victims.
Authorities stated that coordinated efforts involving security agencies and intelligence units are ongoing, while reaffirming commitment to ensuring the safe return of all abducted persons and bringing those responsible to justice.
Officials also described the attack as a targeted operation carried out by an organised criminal network, reflecting evolving tactics used by armed groups in the region.
The government urged the public to remain calm and assured that efforts to secure the release of the victims are being intensified.
