The rescued victims
Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have launched an intensive search-and-rescue operation following the abduction of the Executive Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Hon. Nura Umar Abdullahi, by armed bandits.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday when the attackers stormed the chairman’s residence, overpowered his police and vigilante security team, and abducted him alongside members of his family.
According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, troops responded immediately after hearing gunfire and pursued the fleeing attackers.
The military said the swift response led to a fierce gun battle, forcing the bandits to abandon five members of the chairman’s family before escaping into nearby bushes with the council chairman.
The rescued victims include the chairman’s two children, his wife, mother and another relative.
Despite the successful rescue, the attack claimed the lives of three members of the chairman’s security team, comprising two police officers and one local vigilante, who were killed while resisting the assailants.
A civilian also lost his life during the attack, while the chairman’s elder brother, Alhaji Bello Umar, sustained injuries.
Following the incident, the Theatre Command activated a coordinated rescue mission involving troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and local vigilante groups.
According to the statement, security forces are conducting deliberate operations around suspected terrorist hideouts in an effort to secure the safe release of the abducted chairman.
The command said it has committed all available operational resources to the mission and is working closely with other security agencies to ensure a successful outcome.
“The Theatre Command assures the Government and people of Zamfara State that every lawful and operational measure is being taken to achieve a successful outcome,” the statement said.
The military also appealed to residents to remain calm, go about their lawful activities, and provide credible information through established security channels to support the ongoing operation.
“The Theatre remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property and will continue working with sister security agencies until the abducted Chairman is safely reunited with his family and the perpetrators are brought to justice,” the statement added.
