The Katsina State Government has stepped up efforts to secure the release of former Director of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd), his wife and other individuals currently being held by kidnappers.
Authorities expressed confidence that ongoing security operations would soon lead to a breakthrough, assuring residents that every available resource is being deployed to ensure the victims regain their freedom.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Zango, disclosed that Governor Dikko Radda had directed security agencies to give top priority to the rescue mission.
According to the state government, preliminary findings suggest that the abduction was not an isolated incident but a carefully planned operation executed by organised criminal groups.
Investigations conducted by security operatives reportedly revealed that the retired army general and his wife were placed under surveillance and followed from Kaduna before they were intercepted and abducted.
Officials noted that the level of coordination displayed by the kidnappers points to an evolving pattern in the methods being adopted by criminal networks operating in the region.
“The targeted nature of this crime has provided critical intelligence that is shaping our response strategy,” the statement said.
The government explained that security forces are combining technological resources with intelligence gathered on the ground to track those responsible for the kidnapping and facilitate the safe return of all victims.
“We are dealing with a targeted operation, which changes the dynamics of our response,” the statement quoted government officials as saying.
“The state is working around the clock, utilising 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.”
Authorities further disclosed that the information obtained from ongoing investigations is helping security agencies refine their operational strategy and identify possible links to wider criminal networks.
The state government described the attack as an insult not only to the retired military officer and his family but also to Nigerians who have dedicated their lives to serving the country.
Despite the setback, officials reiterated their resolve to ensure that those behind the abduction are apprehended and prosecuted.
As part of efforts to rescue the victims, the government said collaboration has been strengthened with the Nigerian Army, the Police and other intelligence agencies.
The statement added that surveillance activities and security operations have been intensified within the affected area as authorities continue to pursue leads connected to the kidnapping.
Government officials also appealed to members of the public to assist with useful information, particularly details regarding suspicious movements or unusual activities that may have occurred before the incident.
According to the authorities, such information could play a vital role in exposing the criminal network responsible for the attack and accelerating rescue efforts.
Reaffirming its commitment to tackling insecurity, the Katsina State Government assured residents that the safety and security of citizens remain a top priority.
Officials maintained that all necessary measures are being taken to secure the release of the abductees and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The government also appealed to the family of Major General Abubakar and members of the public to remain calm and optimistic as security agencies continue their operations.
Expressing confidence in the ongoing efforts, the state said it expects the high-level rescue operation to produce positive results in the coming days.
