Troops rescue five family members as search intensifies for abducted Zamfara LG chairman

Security forces in Zamfara State have initiated a large-scale search and rescue operation for the Executive Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area, Hon. Nura Umar Abdullahi, who was abducted by suspected terrorists. The incident occurred in the early hours of July 25, 2026, when attackers stormed the chairman's residence, overwhelming the police and vigilante personnel on duty.

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The slain security personnel fought gallantly while resisting the attackers.

During the attack, two police officers, a local vigilante, and a civilian lost their lives while resisting the assailants. The chairman's elder brother, Alhaji Bello Umar, also sustained injuries. The swift response of troops from Operation Fansan Yamma engaged the fleeing attackers in a gun battle, leading to the abandonment of five family members, including the chairman's wife, mother, and two children, who were rescued unharmed.

The military confirmed that the abducted chairman was taken into nearby bushes by the attackers. In response, the Joint Task Force (North West) has activated a comprehensive rescue operation involving troops, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and local vigilantes. These forces are conducting targeted operations in suspected terrorist hideouts to ensure the chairman's safe return.

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Security personnel, it added, are conducting targeted operations in areas believed to be the terrorists’ hideouts in an effort to rescue the abducted chairman safely.

The command has assured the Zamfara State Government and its residents that all necessary measures are being employed to secure the chairman's release and bring the perpetrators to justice. The public is urged to remain calm and provide any credible information to aid the ongoing efforts.

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It assured the Zamfara State Government and residents that every lawful operational measure is being taken to secure the chairman’s release and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.