The Zamfara State Police Command has announced the successful rescue of three Islamic clerics who were kidnapped on September 12 while traveling to Talata Mafara for a special prayer session. The confirmation was made by the Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammad Bello, during an interview with reporters in Gusau.

The clerics were part of a group of six who were intercepted by heavily armed bandits on the Dakko-Damri feeder road near Sububu Forest in Bakura Local Government Area. They were en route to pray for the administration of President Bola Tinubu when they were abducted. Reports indicate that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of N30 million for their release.

CP Bello highlighted that the rescue operation was the result of a collaborative effort involving the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). He noted that the operation was characterized by seamless synergy among the agencies, which was crucial in tracking down the armed bandits.

The rescued clerics, identified as Imam Yahuza, Magawata Abdullahi, Malam Shehu Dakko, Imam Bala Fagon, and Na’ibi Tasi’u, were reportedly rescued unhurt. Following their extraction, they underwent medical evaluations and debriefing to ensure their well-being.

In a statement, a senior security operative involved in the operation confirmed that the clerics are in stable condition and will soon be handed over to the Zamfara State Government to reunite them with their families. The police have assured the public that operations will continue to locate the remaining clerics still in captivity and to flush out the bandits responsible for the abduction.

The police command has also urged community members to remain vigilant and provide timely information that could assist in ongoing security operations across the region. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by armed banditry in Zamfara and the commitment of security agencies to combat these threats effectively.