A suspected bandit kingpin identified as Kachallah Muhammad has reportedly established contact with the family of abducted retired military officer, Major General Rabe Abubakar Batsari (rtd), following his abduction alongside his wife in Katsina State.
According to sources, the bandit leader reached out to the family yesterday morning, days after the retired general and his wife were kidnapped along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area.
The couple was reportedly travelling when armed men ambushed their vehicle, opened fire, and took them into a nearby forest.
A senior official from Batsari Local Government, who requested anonymity for security reasons, said he personally spoke with the retired general during the conversation facilitated by the bandit leader.
The official revealed that Major General Batsari assured family members that both he and his wife were safe and in good condition, providing some relief to relatives and concerned community members.
During the discussion, Kachallah Muhammad reportedly demanded the release of some of his relatives allegedly being held by Nigerian security agencies.
He also showed willingness to engage in dialogue with authorities, expressing interest in returning to peace negotiations aimed at addressing insecurity in Matazu and surrounding communities.
The abduction has generated concern among residents and family members, who described the retired officer as a respected figure known for his military service and contributions to community development.
A family member, Mariya Ibrahim, said the retired general was travelling to Katsina for a wedding when he was kidnapped.
She appealed to authorities to ensure the safe rescue of both victims.
Residents also expressed fears about worsening insecurity, noting that if a retired senior military officer could be abducted, ordinary citizens remain even more vulnerable.
Security analyst Abubakar Ibrahim described the incident as a troubling sign of growing boldness among armed groups operating in the region.
He warned that the kidnapping highlights persistent security challenges on major highways and in rural communities across Katsina State.
The incident has renewed calls for stronger security measures and swift action by authorities to secure the release of the retired general and his wife while addressing the broader threat posed by banditry in northern Nigeria.
