Bandits have reportedly demanded N30 million for the release of six Islamic clerics abducted in Zamfara State.
The clerics were reportedly intercepted by armed men along the Dakko–Damri feeder road in Bakura Local Government Area while travelling towards Talata Mafara. The Zamfara State Police Command confirmed the abduction and said a rescue operation had been launched.
The victims, all identified as Imams, were reportedly travelling when their vehicle was ambushed by armed bandits at about 11:30am.
According to reports, the abductors have contacted people close to the victims and demanded N30 million as ransom for their release. A report also said the driver who was abducted with them has regained his freedom after a ransom was reportedly paid.
The clerics had attended a prayer meeting in Talata Mafara before the incident. Reports linked the meeting to prayers for President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, and said it was held at the residence of Senator Abdulaziz Yari.
However, the Nigerian Army has denied reports that the clerics were abducted at Yari’s residence. The Army said intelligence indicated that some people were abducted while travelling from the Sububu forest axis in Bakura Local Government Area towards Talata Mafara.
The Zamfara Police Command said its personnel, working with other security agencies, were combing surrounding areas in an effort to locate and rescue the victims.
The Commissioner of Police in Zamfara directed the operatives involved in the operation to intensify efforts and deploy available resources to secure the safe release of the abducted clerics.
The police and military authorities have also appealed to residents to provide credible information that could assist ongoing efforts to rescue the victims and apprehend the perpetrators.
