From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
The Katsina State Government has said that it is working in collaboration with security agencies to secure the release of the abducted former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd), and his wife.
In a statement issued by the State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr. Bala Salisu Zango, the government said coordinated efforts were at an advanced stage, expressing optimism that the retired General and his wife would soon regain their freedom.
According to the statement, Governor Umar Dikko Radda has directed all relevant security agencies to prioritise the safe rescue of the victims, as well as others held in bandits’ camps.
The statement further disclosed that preliminary investigations into the abduction revealed that the incident was a deliberate and targeted kidnapping.
“Evidence gathered so far suggests that the veteran military officer and his spouse were specifically monitored and trailed from Kaduna, their point of departure,” it stated.
It added that the targeted nature of the crime underscores a worrying shift in the tactics employed by criminal elements operating within the region.
The government noted that the precision of the abduction indicates the involvement of organized criminal groups.
“The administration remains committed to ensuring that those who orchestrated this act are brought to justice,” the statement added, “We are dealing with a targeted operation, which changes the dynamics of our response.
“The state is working around the clock, utilizing both technology and ground intelligence to close in on the abductors. Our primary goal remains the safe return of the General, his wife, and others in similar situations.”
The statement also appealed to members of the public to provide any information regarding suspicious movements or activities before the incident, noting that such details would assist in dismantling the criminal network responsible.
It urged the family of Major General Rabe Abubakar and the general public to remain calm and steadfast, assuring that all necessary resources are being deployed to ensure their safe return.“We are confident that the ongoing high-level operations will yield a positive result very shortly,” the statement concluded.