Security operatives have rescued three of the six Islamic clerics abducted by suspected bandits in Zamfara State, with efforts continuing to secure the release of the remaining victims.
The Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Bello, confirmed the development during an interview with journalists in Gusau on Friday, October 30.
Bello said the rescue was achieved through a joint operation involving the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
He explained that security agencies were continuing tactical operations to locate the abductors and rescue the three clerics still being held captive. According to him, operatives were also relying on timely intelligence from residents and local communities to track the suspects.
The three rescued clerics were reportedly freed unharmed. A senior security operative involved in the operation said they had undergone medical examinations and security debriefing and were in stable condition. Arrangements were also being made to hand them over to the Zamfara State Government for reunion with their families.
The victims were among six Islamic clerics abducted on September 12, 2026, while travelling along the Dakko-Damri feeder road in Bakura Local Government Area. Their vehicle was reportedly intercepted by armed men near the Sububu Forest axis at about 11:30 a.m. as they travelled towards Talata Mafara.
The clerics were said to be attending a special prayer gathering organised to seek divine favour for President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The abductors reportedly demanded ₦30 million for the release of the victims, although the ransom demand has not been independently confirmed by security authorities.
The abduction was initially confirmed by the Zamfara State Police Command, which announced that a coordinated search-and-rescue operation had commenced. The Nigerian Army also confirmed that the victims were seized while travelling from the Sububu Forest area towards Talata Mafara.
The Army specifically dismissed reports that the clerics were abducted at the residence of former Zamfara State Governor and Senator, Abdul’aziz Yari, saying the incident occurred along the route from Bakura.
Meanwhile, the police have urged residents to provide credible and actionable information that could assist security agencies in locating the remaining victims and apprehending those responsible.
With three clerics now rescued, the operation remains ongoing as security agencies work to secure the freedom of the others still in captivity.
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