Joint operations by the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Force have successfully liberated three of the six Islamic clerics who were previously abducted by bandits in Zamfara State. The rescue operation marked a critical breakthrough in efforts to secure the release of the religious scholars, who were seized on September 12, 2026, while journeying to Talata Mafara for a special prayer session dedicated to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
What were the circumstances of the abduction?
The armed assailants intercepted the victims at approximately 11:30 a.m. along the Dakko-Damri feeder road, situated near the notorious Sububu Forest within the Bakura Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The incident took place roughly three kilometers away from Damri village, near the Gidan Suleiman Bature area, as the clerics made their way across the region.
How was the rescue executed?
A high-ranking security official, speaking on condition of anonymity in Gusau, verified that the three clerics regained their freedom unharmed following a strategic, intelligence-driven operation executed by the allied security agencies. Following their recovery, the victims underwent comprehensive medical evaluations and formal debriefing sessions, with health officials confirming they are currently in stable condition. Arrangements are underway to formally transfer the liberated clerics to the Zamfara State Government for their eventual reunion with their families. Prior to the rescue, the abductors had pressed for a financial demand of N30 million as ransom for the freedom of the captives.
What are authorities doing about the remaining hostages?
The Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Muhammad Bello, corroborated the successful rescue mission and lauded the synergy among the various security formations. He highlighted that the seamless coordination between the national security office, the intelligence service, and police personnel was instrumental in achieving the positive outcome. Meanwhile, security forces have intensified manhunts and tactical operations to secure the release of the remaining three clerics still trapped in captivity and to bring the perpetrators to justice. Authorities are actively leveraging local intelligence and community networks to track down the suspects, while urging members of the public to share actionable and prompt information to aid ongoing campaigns against banditry and violent crime across the region.