Nigeria's Defence Headquarters has launched a massive counter-banditry offensive in Katsina State following the abduction and death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar. The operation, codenamed 'Operation Clean Sweep III,' was initiated by the Defence Headquarters Joint Task Force North West under Operation Fansan Yamma and commenced on Saturday, June 14, 2026.
Operation Details
According to a statement issued by the JTF's Media Information Officer, Lt-Col. Aliyu Danja, the military action is specifically aimed at tracking down the criminal elements linked to the retired general's kidnapping and death while dismantling their networks across the region. Troops have intensified operations across Matazu Local Government Area and surrounding communities, carrying out intelligence-led raids, fighting patrols, cordon-and-search missions, and clearance exercises targeting suspected bandit enclaves.
Early Successes
Military authorities disclosed that early successes have already been recorded in several locations, including Dikkawa Hills, Adua, Nasarawa, and Karaduwa, where troops reportedly destroyed terrorist camps, logistics bases, and other operational facilities used by criminal groups. The military said the offensive will continue until the perpetrators are apprehended and the affected communities are cleared of bandit activities.
