Katsina reveals high-level surveillance behind ex-defence spokesman kidnap

The Katsina State Government says the abduction of former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd), and his wife was a carefully planned operation involving sustained tracking from Kaduna State before the attack in Katsina.

According to preliminary security findings, the retired military officer and his wife were trailed from their point of departure in Kaduna before being intercepted by armed men along the Matazu Local Government Area axis.

The couple was travelling with their driver along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road when they were ambushed near Zakin Baure village and forced into a nearby forest by the attackers.

In a statement issued by the Katsina State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Salisu-Zango, the government described the incident as a “targeted operation,” noting that the level of coordination suggests advanced surveillance by the abductors.

Officials said the development reflects a shift in tactics by armed criminal groups in the region, with victims increasingly monitored before attacks are carried out.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has directed a joint security response involving the Nigerian Army, police, and intelligence agencies to prioritise the safe rescue of the abducted couple.

Authorities said the operation now involves coordinated intelligence gathering and ground deployment aimed at locating and securing the victims without further harm.

Government officials urged residents to remain calm, saying security forces are working to close in on the kidnappers using both field operations and intelligence support.

The case escalated after a video surfaced online showing the abductors presenting a “proof-of-life” message from the forest.

In the footage, the wife of the retired general appealed to authorities and community leaders to intervene urgently.

Instead of a traditional ransom demand, the group reportedly requested the release of three detained associates and the return of livestock seized during previous security operations.

Officials say negotiations and security operations are ongoing, with authorities maintaining that all efforts are focused on securing the safe release of the abducted victims.

The state government has assured the public that updates will be provided as the situation develops.