KASLTSINA — Retired Major General Abubakar Rabe, who was abducted two weeks ago in northwestern Nigeria’s Katsina State, has died while in captivity, reportedly due to complications linked to diabetes and hypertension, officials and local sources said.
The former senior military officer was kidnapped in an area affected by persistent banditry and armed criminal activity, which has plagued parts of northern Nigeria in recent years despite ongoing military operations.
Authorities have not yet provided detailed circumstances surrounding his death, including whether any ransom negotiations were underway at the time.
The Katsina State Government expressed condolences to the family of the deceased, describing the incident as a tragic loss, and reiterated its commitment to intensifying efforts to combat armed bandit groups operating across the region.
Security forces have been engaged in a long-running campaign against heavily armed criminal gangs responsible for kidnappings, attacks on rural communities, and highway ambushes across northwestern Nigeria.
Kidnapping for ransom has become a major security challenge in the region, often targeting civilians, travelers, and high-profile individuals, with limited success in fully curbing the trend.
The death of the retired general is likely to renew public concern over insecurity in the region and pressure authorities to strengthen intelligence and rescue operations.
Officials have not confirmed whether any arrests have been made in connection with the abduction.
