Former Nigerian General Dies in Captivity After Kidnapping
Rabe Abubakar was taken along with his spouse by individuals referred to as bandits in the northwestern region. A government announcement indicated that he passed away due to issues arising from diabetes and high blood pressure.
In Nigeria, a retired military general has reportedly died while in captivity, as reported by local media sources, citing the nation's armed forces and state administration.
Abubakar and his wife were seized in Katsina state approximately two weeks ago by armed individuals from a suspected kidnapping-for-ransom group, commonly referred to as "bandits."
### Government's Account
The former defense spokesperson succumbed to complications related to diabetes and hypertension, as per a government release from the Ministry for Internal Security and Home Affairs.
The statement noted that "despite the relentless and coordinated efforts...to ensure his safe return, the situation culminated in this tragedy."
The AFP news agency referenced a security source indicating that Abubakar and his wife were en route to a wedding when they were ambushed along the way.
Nigerian daily Punch reported last week that the captors were demanding the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock allegedly taken during security operations in exchange for freeing the kidnapped couple.
### Nigeria's Security Situation
Katsina is one of several states in northwestern and central Nigeria where criminal gangs are active.
So-called bandits in Nigeria frequently raid villages, abduct residents for ransom, and set homes ablaze after looting them.
Islamist extremist groups have also been causing problems in remote areas of Nigeria.
Livestock theft, kidnappings, and extortion are often used as means to finance armed groups, and law enforcement and security continue to be a challenge for Nigerian authorities.
In the most recent attack, gunmen killed at least 17 farmers and wounded at least 13 others while they were working in their fields in northwestern Nigeria, according to a local official.
The assault occurred on Friday in the town of Goron Namaye in Zamfara state.
In August of last year, dozens of people lost their lives in Katsina state when gunmen stormed a mosque during an attack on a Muslim community.
Edited by: Jenipher Camino Gonzalez