A bandit leader linked to the abduction of Rabe Abubakar Batsari, a retired major general and his wife has reportedly demanded a prisoner exchange for their release.
The retired senior military officer and his wife were reportedly seized by armed men suspected to be operating in the region during a recent attack that has heightened security concerns in the area.
Security and community sources said the suspected gang leader, identified as Kachallah Muhammad, made contact shortly after the abduction through intermediaries, conveying the group’s demand.
According to the sources, the armed group is insisting on the release of some of its detained members currently in the custody of security agencies, rather than a financial ransom, as a condition for freeing the abducted couple.
It was also gathered that the retired general was allowed to speak briefly during the communication process, where he confirmed that he and his wife were in stable condition.
The development reflects a growing trend in some kidnapping cases across parts of northern Nigeria, where armed groups are increasingly prioritising prisoner exchanges over cash payments.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the reported demand or ongoing negotiation, while security surveillance and efforts to secure the victims’ release are said to be ongoing in the affected area.
