DHQ Launches Operation Clean Sweep III In Katsina After Death Of Gen. Abubakar In Bandit’s Den

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), has launched Operation Clean Sweep III in Katsina State following the death of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar in the den of bandits.

The DHQ commenced the fresh major offensive across Matazu Local Government Area and neighbouring communities in Katsina State.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (JTF) North West under Operation Fansan Yamma, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, troops have already carried out intensive fighting patrols, intelligence-driven raids, cordon-and-search operations, and clearance exercises in identified criminal hideouts.

He noted that the operation, which kicked off on Sunday, June 14, 2026, aims to hunt down and eliminate the bandits responsible for the retired general’s kidnapping and subsequent death in captivity, while dismantling their operational networks in the region.

The DHQ 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.

In another development, a delegation from the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Sunday paid condolence visits to the family of the late Maj. Gen. Rabe Abubakar (retd.) and the Katsina State Government following the retired officer’s death.

Naija News reports that the delegation was led by the Chief of Administration (Army), Maj. Gen. I.M. Abdullahi.

In a statement, the Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, said the delegation conveyed the condolences of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. O.O. Oluyede, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to the bereaved family, as well as the government and people of Katsina State.

At the family residence in Katsina, Abdullahi described the late Abubakar as a dedicated and patriotic officer who served Nigeria with distinction in several capacities throughout his military career.

He said the deceased made significant contributions to the development of the Nigerian Army and the country’s security architecture.