By Paul Joseph
The Nigerian military has launched a retaliatory offensive, codenamed Operation Clean Sweep III, across parts of Katsina State following the abduction and death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, in a move aimed at hunting down the bandits responsible and dismantling their networks.
The Defence Headquarters Joint Task Force (JTF) North West said the operation commenced on Saturday, June 14, 2026, covering Matazu Local Government Area and neighbouring communities.
According to the military, the operation is specifically targeted at tracking and neutralising the criminals linked to the retired general’s kidnapping and subsequent death in captivity, while restoring security in affected communities.
In a statement issued under Operation Fansan Yamma, the military said the offensive involves intensive fighting patrols, intelligence-led raids, cordon-and-search missions and clearance operations targeting identified criminal hideouts.
The statement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer of the JTF North West, disclosed that troops have already recorded notable successes since the commencement of the operation.
“We have launched ‘Operation Clean Sweep III’ across Katsina State,” the statement said.
“Significant gains have been recorded around Dikkawa Hills, Adua, Nasarawa and Karaduwa areas, where several terrorist camps, logistics hubs and support facilities were destroyed.”
The military noted that the operation forms part of broader efforts to restore peace and stability in Katsina and other parts of the North-West plagued by banditry, kidnapping and related criminal activities.
The latest offensive comes amid public outrage over the death of Major General Abubakar, whose killing has renewed concerns about insecurity in the region and intensified calls for stronger action against armed groups terrorising communities.
Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal elements and ensuring that those responsible for the retired general’s death are brought to justice.
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