After General's Death, Military Launches Massive Anti-Bandit Offensive In Katsina

In the aftermath of the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in captivity, the Defence Headquarters has launched a major military offensive aimed at dismantling terrorist and bandit networks operating across parts of Katsina State.

The operation, codenamed Operation Clean Sweep III, is being conducted by troops of the Joint Task Force North West under Operation Fansan Yamma.

According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of JTF North West, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the offensive commenced on June 14, 2026 and is focused on identifying and neutralising criminal elements responsible for attacks in Matazu Local Government Area and surrounding communities.

The operation follows public outrage over the death of Major General Abubakar (retd.) who was abducted alongside his wife along the Katsina-Matazu Road on May 30.

The Katsina State Government announced on Saturday that the retired officer died while in captivity after suffering complications linked to diabetes and hypertension.

Since the launch of Operation Clean Sweep III, troops have intensified fighting patrols, intelligence-driven raids, cordon-and-search missions and clearance operations across identified terrorist hideouts and criminal strongholds. Military authorities disclosed that troops recorded notable successes around the Dikkawa Hills and neighbouring communities.

According to the statement, operations conducted in Adua, Nasarawa and Karaduwa led to the discovery and destruction of several terrorist camps, logistics bases and support facilities used by criminal groups.

The military said the offensive is being carried out in collaboration with sister security agencies and local stakeholders to enhance operational effectiveness and improve intelligence gathering. Commanders have reassured residents that troops remain committed to protecting lives and property while denying terrorists and bandits the freedom to operate within the region.

The military also appealed to residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence capable of assisting ongoing operations.

Authorities say pressure will be sustained until all objectives of Operation Clean Sweep III are achieved and terrorist networks operating within the area are significantly degraded.