The Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Hon. Nura Umar Abdullahi, and four other kidnap victims have escaped from terrorists’ captivity and been received by troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
The five victims escaped in the early hours of Thursday, September 24, 2026, in the general area of Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of the state, according to a statement issued by the Joint Task Force North West.
The statement, signed by the Media Information Officer of the task force, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, said the victims were received by troops deployed in the area and were provided with security cover.
Abdullahi was abducted from his residence in Bungudu town in July 2026, an incident which had earlier been confirmed by the Theatre Command.
The victims reportedly escaped during an intelligence-led operation by troops targeting a suspected terrorists’ location in the area.
They were subsequently evacuated to a military medical facility, where they are receiving treatment and undergoing medical evaluation and routine debriefing.
The statement said one of the victims had already been reunited with his family, while arrangements were being made for the safe reunion of the remaining victims with their families and the Zamfara State Government.
“The Theatre Command commends the courage, resilience and determination of the victims in regaining their freedom after a prolonged period in captivity,” the statement said.
It also commended the troops for their vigilance and professionalism in receiving and securing the victims.
The command said the return of the victims was a relief to their families, the people of Bungudu Local Government Area and Zamfara State at large.
It added that troops would sustain clearance and dominance operations across the area to disrupt terrorist activities and protect communities.
The Theatre Command further said it remained committed to securing the safe return of other persons who might still be held or missing.
It urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to the nearest military or other security agencies.
