Zamfara State police have confirmed the release of three of six Islamic clerics abducted while travelling to Talata Mafara on September 12, as security agencies continue operations to recover the other three men.
Joint intelligence operation secures release
Police Commissioner Muhammad Bello announced the development during a Friday meeting with selected journalists in Gusau. He said the recovery resulted from a coordinated operation involving the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force.
- Three of the six kidnapped clerics have been rescued.
- The remaining three are still being held by their captors.
- Security personnel are continuing efforts to locate and free those still in captivity.
- Local communities are supplying real-time intelligence to help authorities track the criminal groups involved.
The operation that freed the three clerics was driven by intelligence gathered and shared among the ONSA, DSS and police.
Abduction occurred during journey to prayer event
The Nigerian Army had previously confirmed that the six Islamic scholars were seized while travelling from the Sububu Forest area in Bakura Local Government Area toward Talata Mafara.
The military also rejected claims that the abduction took place at the home of Abdulaziz Yari, the former governor of Zamfara State.
The clerics were headed to a special prayer gathering intended to seek divine support for the administration of President Bola Tinubu. Their kidnappers were reported to have sought N30 million in ransom.
Rescued men medically cleared as search continues
A senior security officer involved in the operation said the three men were recovered unharmed. They were reported to be in stable condition after receiving medical examinations and undergoing security debriefings.
- The rescued clerics are expected to be transferred to the Zamfara State Government.
- State authorities will then facilitate their reunion with family members.
- Security agencies will maintain the operation aimed at securing the release of the final three victims.
The police command urged residents to share credible information that could assist efforts against banditry and other criminal activity across the region.
