The Theatre Command of Operation Fansan Yamma has confirmed the abduction of the Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area in Zamfara State, Alhaji Nura Abdullahi, after armed bandits attacked his residence in the early hours of Saturday.
Vanguard reported that the confirmation was contained in a statement issued in Gusau on Saturday by the Media Officer of the theatre command, Lt.-Col. Aliyu Danja.
According to Danja, four people, including two police officers attached to the chairman, a vigilante operative and another member of his security team, were killed during the attack.
He said heavily armed terrorists stormed the residence of the council chairman and abducted him along with members of his family after overpowering the security personnel stationed at the house.
“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 comprising two of his children, mother, wife and his relative, who were successfully rescued.
“However, the terrorists narrowly escaped into surrounding bushes with the chairman, while the attack claimed the lives of his security detail, two policemen and one local vigilante who gallantly resisted the attackers.
“Also, a civilian was killed while the chairman’s elder brother, Alhaji Bello Umar, was injured during the attack.
Danja disclosed that security agencies have since launched a coordinated search-and-rescue mission involving troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and local vigilante groups.
“Security forces are currently conducting deliberate operations at the suspected location of the terrorists, aimed at safely rescuing the abducted chairman.
“The theatre command has deployed all available resources in the ongoing operation and remains in close coordination with participating security agencies.
“The theatre command assures the government and people of Zamfara that every lawful and operational measure is being taken to achieve a successful outcome.
“The command appeals to members of the public to remain calm, continue with their lawful activities and provide credible information through established security channels that may assist the ongoing operation.
“The theatre remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property and will continue working with sister security agencies until the abducted chairman is safely reunited with his family and the perpetrators brought to justice,” he said.
