Nigerian Army rescues widow after retired general dies in captivity

Nigeria's military rescued Amina Abubakar, the widow of retired Maj Gen Rabe Abubakar, during an operation against the kidnappers who had held the couple since the end of last month in Katsina state. The kidnappers shot Mrs Abubakar before fleeing as troops advanced, the Defence Headquarters said. She is now being treated in a military hospital.

Maj Gen Abubakar died in captivity over the weekend. Katsina state government officials linked his death to diabetes and high blood pressure. His remains were buried on the Saturday prior to the article's publication.

The rescue followed intensified search-and-rescue efforts. Samaila Uba, director of defence information, said: "During sustained offensive operations and pressure mounted on the criminal elements, troops made contact with the bandits... " Uba added that the armed forces leadership remained committed to ensuring her full recovery and was providing all necessary support to her family.

He said troops would continue operations and track down the kidnappers. One of the couple's daughters, Bilkisu Abubakar, posted on WhatsApp: "We are deeply grateful to Allah for His mercy and protection. " A video surfaced online on 6 June showing the retired general and his wife appealing to the Katsina government to release detained bandits and their livestock in exchange for their freedom.

No group has claimed responsibility for the abductions. President Bola Tinubu said he was "shocked" by Maj Gen Abubakar's death and described it as a reminder of the threat posed by armed criminal groups. In north-west Nigeria, criminal gangs known locally as "bandits" frequently carry out kidnappings for ransom, as well as cattle rustling and attacks on rural communities.