A suspected bandit leader, identified as Kachallah Muhammad, has reportedly established contact with the family of abducted retired Major General Rabe Abubakar Batsari and is demanding the release of individuals he claims are being held by security agencies.
Sources familiar with the development said Muhammad reached out to the retired officer's relatives on Monday, two days after the former military officer and his wife were kidnapped in Katsina State.
Major General Batsari and his wife were abducted on Saturday after gunmen attacked their vehicle along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area. Witnesses said the attackers emerged from hiding, blocked the road, opened fire and forced the couple into a nearby forest.
The route has long been considered vulnerable to bandit attacks, according to residents.
A senior official in Batsari Local Government, who requested anonymity for security reasons, said he spoke directly with the retired general during a conversation facilitated by the bandit leader.
According to the official, Major General Batsari told family members and associates that both he and his wife were safe.
"He said he is fine and that his wife is also in good condition," the source said.
The official added that the bandit leader used the opportunity to outline his demands, insisting that his relatives allegedly being held in government custody should be released.
Muhammad also reportedly indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue aimed at restoring peace in Matazu and surrounding communities.
The abduction has generated concern among residents and relatives, who described the retired military officer as a respected community figure and key supporter of local development initiatives.
A family member, Mariya Ibrahim, said the couple were travelling to Katsina for a wedding when they were kidnapped.
"He served the country with dedication and deserves protection. We want him and his wife rescued safely," she said.
Residents also expressed concern about the broader security situation in the state. Ibrahim Mamman Batsari, a resident of the area, said the incident highlights growing insecurity.
"If a retired senior military officer can be abducted, ordinary citizens are even more exposed," he said.
Another relative, Aisha Abubakar Batsari, described the retired officer as a pillar of the extended family and appealed for his safe return.
Community leaders noted that the retired general remained actively involved in local affairs and was expected in Batsari on the day of the incident for discussions on community development.
Security analyst Abubakar Ibrahim said the kidnapping reflects the increasing boldness of armed groups operating in the region.
"The abduction of a retired Major General underscores the security challenges facing communities and road users in Katsina State. It also raises concerns about the protection of vulnerable areas and key transport routes," he said.
