By By Elizabeth Ugbo
KATSINA, Nigeria — Notorious bandit leader Kachallah Muhammad has opened communication with the family of abducted retired Major General Rabe Abubakar Batsari and his wife, who were kidnapped on Saturday along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. The contact, established on Monday, revealed that the couple is safe and may pave the way for negotiations aimed at securing their release and restoring peace in affected communities.
Kachallah Muhammad Establishes Contact With Family
Kachallah Muhammad, a feared bandit leader operating in parts of Katsina State, reportedly contacted relatives of Major General Batsari on Monday.
Sources said the development could open a channel for negotiations over the release of the retired military officer and his wife.
The couple was abducted on Saturday while travelling through Katsina State.
Retired General and Wife Reportedly Safe
A senior local government official in Batsari confirmed the latest development.
The official, who requested anonymity for security reasons, said he spoke directly with the retired general through the bandit leader.
“I spoke with Major General Rabe through Kachallah Muhammad. He told us that he is hale and hearty and that his wife is also fine,” the official said.
According to the source, the retired officer reassured relatives that their captors were treating them well.
The message eased fears among family members and residents who had remained anxious since news of the abduction emerged.
Bandit Leader States Conditions for Release
During the conversation, Kachallah Muhammad reportedly outlined his demands.
The bandit leader insisted on the immediate release of his relatives and lieutenants allegedly being held by Nigerian security authorities.
“He said what he wants is the immediate release of his relatives and lieutenants in government custody,” the official disclosed.
In addition, Muhammad expressed readiness to return to the negotiation table.
According to the source, he believes dialogue could help restore peace in Matazu and neighbouring communities.
“He said he is ready to go back to the negotiation table to achieve peace in Matazu and neighbouring communities,” the official added.
How the Abduction Happened
Witnesses said heavily armed gunmen ambushed the couple’s vehicle along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road.
The attackers reportedly emerged from hiding and blocked the road.
They then opened fire, forcing the vehicle to stop.
Afterward, they whisked Major General Batsari and his wife into a nearby forest.
Residents have repeatedly described the road as dangerous due to frequent bandit attacks.
Family Appeals for Safe Rescue
Relatives continue to express concern over the abduction.
Mariya Ibrahim, a family member, described the retired general as the family’s breadwinner.
She said the couple was travelling to Katsina to attend a wedding when the incident occurred.
“He served this country with dedication and deserves protection even in retirement. We want him and his wife rescued alive and unharmed,” she said.
Another relative, Aisha Abubakar Batsari, described the retired officer as the pillar of the extended family.
She urged security agencies to intensify rescue efforts.
Residents Raise Alarm Over Rising Insecurity
Residents of Batsari have also reacted to the incident.
Many noted that the retired general remained active in community development and humanitarian activities after leaving military service.
Ibrahim Mamman Batsari said the kidnapping reflects the growing insecurity across the country.
“If a retired senior military officer can be kidnapped, then ordinary citizens are even more vulnerable. Government must rise to its responsibility,” he said.
Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement on the reported negotiations.
