Security agencies rescue three of six Imams kidnapped in Zamfara
- ONSA, DSS and police operatives rescued three clerics abducted in Zamfara on September 12.
- The Imams were travelling to a prayer session for President Tinubu when bandits seized them.
- Three of the six clerics remain in captivity as security operations continue.
Three Islamic clerics kidnapped in Zamfara State have been rescued by security operatives, the police have confirmed.
The clerics were among six Imams seized on September 12, 2026, while travelling to Talata Mafara for a special prayer session for President Bola Tinubu's administration and political future.
According to the reports, armed men intercepted the group at about 11:30am along the Dakko-Damri feeder road near Sububu Forest in Bakura Local Government Area. The spot is about three kilometres from Damri village, at Gidan Suleiman Bature.
The rescue was carried out by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force, working together on intelligence-led operations.
The Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Muhammad Bello, confirmed the rescue and praised the collaboration between the three agencies.
A senior security operative, who spoke in Gusau, said the three clerics were rescued unhurt. They were medically examined and debriefed, and are said to be in stable condition.
The rescued Imams are expected to be formally handed over to the Zamfara State Government so they can be reunited with their families.
Three still in captivity
Security agencies say operations are still ongoing to free the three Imams still held by the kidnappers.
According to the reports, the abductors had demanded a ransom of ₦30 million for the clerics' release.
The police commissioner said the agencies are relying on real-time intelligence from local community members to track the armed men.
Security agencies urged residents to keep passing on timely and useful information that could help identify such groups in the region.
What happens next: The three rescued clerics are due to be handed to the state government. The search continues for the remaining three, and the police are asking communities to keep sharing information.
