Zamfara Police confirm the rescue of three Islamic clerics abducted by armed bandits in September, as security operatives intensify efforts to free the remaining victims still in captivity.
The Zamfara State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of three of the six Islamic clerics abducted by armed bandits in September while travelling to Talata Mafara in the state.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammad Bello, confirmed the development during an interview with journalists on Friday in Gusau.
Bello said the rescue followed a multi-agency security operation involving the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
He disclosed that security operations were still ongoing, with operatives relying on real-time intelligence from local communities to track down the remaining kidnappers and secure the release of the three clerics still in captivity.
The rescue was reportedly achieved through intelligence-driven collaboration coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, DSS and police operatives.
The victims were among six Islamic clerics abducted on September 12 while travelling to attend a special prayer session for President Bola Tinubu in Talata Mafara.
The clerics were intercepted by heavily armed bandits at about 11:30 a.m. along the Dakko-Damri feeder road near Sububu Forest in Bakura Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Those identified among the abducted clerics included Imam Yahuza, Magawata Abdullahi, Malam Shehu Dakko, Imam Bala Fagon and Na’ibi Tasi’u.
They were reportedly travelling to participate in a special prayer gathering seeking divine favour for the Tinubu administration.
Their abductors had reportedly demanded a ransom of N30 million for their release.
A senior security operative involved in the rescue operation also confirmed that the three clerics were freed unharmed following carefully coordinated, intelligence-led operations.
The rescued victims were said to be in stable condition after undergoing medical evaluation and professional debriefing.
Security operatives further disclosed that arrangements were being made for their formal handover to the Zamfara State Government to facilitate their reunion with their families.
The Police Command assured residents that security operations would continue until the remaining captives were rescued and those responsible for the abduction apprehended.
It also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with timely and actionable information to support efforts to eliminate banditry and other criminal activities across the state.
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