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Three of the six Islamic clerics kidnapped by bandits in Zamfara State have regained their freedom following a joint rescue operation involving the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
The clerics, who were abducted on September 12, 2026, while on their way to Talata Mafara for a special prayer session for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, were reportedly rescued unharmed through intelligence-led operations by security agencies. Project reports
A senior security officer involved in the operation, who confirmed the developments in Gusau, said the rescued clerics had undergone medical tests and debriefings and were in stable condition.
The source added that arrangements are being made to hand them over to the Zamfara state government for reunification with their families.
Their release takes place during continuous security operations to guarantee the freedom of the remaining three religious still detained by the kidnappers.
Clerics intercepted near Sububu Forest
The six clerics were reportedly abducted at around 11.30am on September 12 while traveling along the Dakko-Damri Link Road, near Sububu Forest, Bakura Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The incident occurred about three kilometers from Damri village in the Gidan Suleiman Bature area when armed men intercepted their vehicle and took them away.
The clerics were traveling to Talata Mafara to attend a special prayer session organized for President Tinubu.
Their abduction has raised concerns about the security situation in the area, particularly the continued activities of armed groups operating around forest communities and rural roads in Zamfara.
The kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom of $30 million for the release of the kidnapped clerics.
The police confirm the rescue and praise the collaboration in security matters
The police commissioner of Zamfara State, Ahmad Muhammad Bello, also confirmed the rescue of the three clerics, praising the collaboration of the security agencies.
He specifically acknowledged the cooperation between ONSA, DSS and police officers, saying that joint efforts contributed to the success of the operation.
The latest developments highlight the role of intelligence sharing and interagency cooperation in the ongoing efforts to counter kidnapping and banditry in the North West.
The search for the remaining kidnapped clerics continues
Meanwhile, security agents continued efforts to secure the release of the remaining three clerics and arrest those responsible for the kidnapping.
Agencies reportedly rely on intelligence from residents and other community members to track down kidnappers and support ongoing operations.
They urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information that could help security personnel locate the remaining victims and tackle criminal activities in the region.
While the rescue of the three clerics represents progress in the operation, the continued captivity of the remaining victims means that security agencies still have work to do to ensure that all six regain their freedom.
