A bandit leader linked to the abduction of a retired senior military officer, Major General Rabe Abubakar Batsari, and his wife has reportedly demanded a prisoner exchange in return for their release.
The couple were kidnapped along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli road in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State on Saturday (May 30).
Security and community sources familiar with the development said the suspected gang leader, identified as Kachallah Muhammad, established contact shortly after the abduction through intermediaries to relay the group’s demands.
According to the sources, the group is not seeking a cash ransom but is instead insisting on the release of detained associates currently in the custody of security agencies.
Sources further disclosed that the retired general was briefly allowed to speak during the communication, confirming that he and his wife were alive and in stable condition.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the reported demand or confirm whether any negotiations are underway.
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