The criminal gang that kidnapped retired Major General Rabe Abubakar Batsari and his wife in Katsina State has turned down a monetary ransom, instead insisting on a prisoner exchange for their release.
On Monday, the gang’s leader, known as Kachallah Muhammad, contacted the family for the first time since the abduction, which occurred along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli road in Matazu Local Government Area. A source close to the negotiations revealed that the bandits are demanding the release of their detained accomplices currently held by security forces, rather than any cash payment.
The retired general and his wife were seized when armed gunmen ambushed their vehicle, opening fire before dragging them into a nearby forest. During the brief call, the abductors allowed the former Director of Defence Information to speak, reassuring his family that both he and his wife are in good health.
A local government official in Batsari confirmed that negotiations are ongoing, though security agencies have not yet released an official statement. Family member Mariya Ibrahim pleaded for swift action, noting that the retired officer was traveling to a wedding in Katsina when he was captured. “He dedicated his life to serving this nation and deserves protection even after retirement. We urge authorities to secure their safe release without harm,” she said.
Residents of the area expressed growing alarm over the deteriorating security situation in northwestern Nigeria, emphasizing that the kidnapping of a high-ranking former military officer underscores the severity of the crisis. As of publication time, neither the Katsina State Police Command nor the military has commented on the abduction or the rescue operation.