Brigadier General Maharazu Tsiga has been kidnapped by the notorious bandit leader Babaro and is reportedly being held hostage in Bununu Forest, located in Faskari Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State. The forest, near the border with Ƙankara LGA, is known for criminal activities, including kidnappings and armed attacks.
The news was shared by security analyst Bakatsine on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday. According to him, the information came from members of the Kandarawa community in Bakori LGA, who had also been kidnapped by Babaro’s gang on January 14, 2025.
The abduction of a high-ranking military officer highlights the growing insecurity in Katsina State, a region that has been plagued by banditry, kidnappings, and violent attacks in recent years. Armed groups operating in the area frequently target both civilians and security personnel, making it one of the most dangerous regions in northern Nigeria.
While the circumstances surrounding General Tsiga’s kidnapping remain unclear, the incident raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of security operations in the region. The Nigerian military has been actively combating bandit groups, yet these criminals continue to carry out high-profile abductions.
As of now, there has been no official statement from the Nigerian Army or security agencies regarding the abduction. It remains uncertain whether negotiations or rescue operations are underway to secure General Tsiga’s release.
The kidnapping of a senior military officer marks a significant escalation in the activities of armed groups in Katsina. Security experts warn that such incidents could further undermine confidence in the government’s ability to protect citizens and combat banditry effectively.
