The Defence Headquarters Joint Task Force North West has launched a major military offensive, codenamed Operation Clean Sweep III, across Matazu Local Government Area and adjoining communities in Katsina State following the abduction and death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar.
The operation commenced on Sunday, June 14, 2026, with troops deployed to track down the bandits responsible for the former Director of Defence Information’s kidnapping and subsequent death in captivity, while also dismantling criminal networks operating in the area.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force North West under Operation Fansan Yamma, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, said troops had intensified offensive operations through fighting patrols, intelligence-led raids, cordon-and-search missions, and clearance exercises across identified bandit enclaves.
According to the statement, significant successes have already been recorded in several locations, including Dikkawa Hills, Adua, Nasarawa and Karaduwa, where troops destroyed terrorist camps, logistics bases and support facilities used by criminal elements.
“The operation is aimed at hunting down and neutralising the bandits responsible for the abduction and death of Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd) while dismantling their operational networks within the area,” Danja stated.
The latest offensive comes days after security agencies intensified efforts to rescue the retired general and his wife, who were abducted along the Matazu axis of Katsina State.
Authorities had earlier described the kidnapping as a targeted operation carried out by organised criminal groups.
Military authorities said troops would sustain pressure on the criminals until those responsible are brought to justice and the affected communities are secured.
Residents have been urged to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies as the operation progresses. Troops are expected to maintain an aggressive pursuit of fleeing bandits across forests and known hideouts within the area.