Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY) have intensified search for the Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Hon. Nura Umar Abdullahi, who was abducted by terrorists along with members of his family in his residence on Saturday.

 

The terrorists were reported to have overpowered the chairman’s police detail and vigilante. On hearing gunshots, troops swiftly moved to the scene where they engaged in hot pursuit of the terrorists leading to a fierce exchange of fire.

 

The Media Information Officer, Operation Fansan Yamma, Lt.-Col. Aliyu Danja, confirmed in a statement that troops’ prompt intervention forced the terrorists to abandon five of the Chairman’s family members comprising two of his children, mother, wife and a relative.

 

“However, the terrorists narrowly escaped into surrounding bushes with the Chairman. Sadly, the attack claimed the lives of members of the Chairman’s security detail, including 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 said that following the incident, the Theatre Command activated a coordinated search and rescue operation involving troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilante. He said security forces are currently conducting deliberate operations at the suspected location of the terrorists, aimed at safely rescuing the abducted Chairman.

 

He said the Theatre Command has deployed all available resources in the ongoing operation and remains in close coordination with participating security agencies, assuring the Government and people of Zamfara State that every lawful and operational measure are 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 are brought to justice.”