Police Confirm Rescue of Three Kidnapped Clerics in Zamfara

The Zamfara State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of three of the six Islamic clerics kidnapped by armed bandits on September 12, 2026. The State Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammad Bello, disclosed the development during an interview with journalists in Gusau on Friday. He said the rescue was achieved through a joint security operation involving the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.

The clerics were reportedly abducted along the Dakko-Damri feeder road near Sububu Forest in Bakura Local Government Area while travelling to Talata Mafara for a special prayer gathering organised to seek divine favour for President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Their abductors reportedly demanded a ransom of N30 million for their release. A senior security operative involved in the rescue operation confirmed that the three clerics were freed unharmed following intelligence-led operations.

According to reports, the rescued clerics underwent medical examinations and security debriefing and were found to be in stable condition. They were also expected to be formally handed over to the Zamfara State Government for reunion with their families. Commissioner of Police Bello commended the collaboration among the security agencies, noting that intelligence provided by members of local communities had contributed to the operation.

Meanwhile, security operations are continuing to secure the release of the three remaining clerics still being held by their abductors. The police command has urged residents to provide credible and timely information that could assist security agencies in tracking down the perpetrators and tackling banditry across the state. The command reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safe recovery of the remaining victims.