Army ramps up efforts to rescue kidnapped LG chairman in Zamfara

The Nigerian Army’s Operation FANSAN YAMMA has stepped up efforts to rescue Nura Abdullahi, the abducted Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area in Zamfara State.

This was shared in a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North West), and posted on the Nigerian Army’s official X account on Saturday.

The statement explained that the attack happened early in the morning. Armed terrorists raided Abdullahi’s home and took him and some family members after they overpowered his police and vigilante guards.

“On hearing gunshots, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA responded immediately and swiftly moved to the scene where they engaged in hot pursuit of the terrorists leading to a fierce exchange of fire.

“Troops’ prompt intervention forced the terrorists to abandon five of the Chairman’s family members, which included two children, his mother, wife, and some relatives, who were successfully rescued.

“Sadly, the terrorists escaped into nearby bushes with the Chairman. The attack also resulted in the deaths of some members of the Chairman’s security detail, including two policemen and one local vigilante who bravely fought against the attackers.”

The statement also mentioned that the chairman’s elder brother, Alhaji Bello Umar, was hurt during the attack.

“After the incident, the Theatre Command started a coordinated search and rescue operation. This involves troops from Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and local vigilantes. Security forces are currently carrying out operations at the suspected hideouts of the terrorists to safely rescue the abducted chairman.

“The Theatre Command has put all available resources into this ongoing operation and is working closely with the security agencies involved. The Theatre Command assures the government and people of Zamfara State that every lawful and operational measure is being taken to ensure a successful outcome,” the statement concluded.