In a swift response to a terrorist attack on the residence of the Executive Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area in Zamfara State, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA successfully rescued five members of the chairman's family. However, the attack, which occurred in the early hours of 25 July 2026, claimed the lives of two police officers, one local vigilante, and one civilian. The chairman, Hon. Nura Umar Abdullahi, remains in captivity as security forces intensify search-and-rescue operations.
Attack on the Chairman's Residence
According to Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, armed terrorists stormed the chairman's residence, overpowering his police and vigilante security detail before abducting him along with family members. The attackers fled after hearing gunfire, but troops on patrol responded immediately, engaging the terrorists in a fierce gun battle.
The prompt intervention forced the assailants to abandon five of the chairman's relatives—two of his children, his wife, his mother, and another family member—who were rescued unharmed. However, the terrorists managed to escape into nearby bushes with the council chairman.
Casualties and Injuries
The attack also resulted in the death of a civilian and left the chairman's elder brother, Alhaji Bello Umar, injured. Lieutenant Colonel Danja confirmed that two policemen and one local vigilante died while gallantly resisting the attackers. "Sadly, the attack claimed the lives of members of the Chairman's security detail, including 2 policemen and 1 local vigilante who gallantly resisted the attackers," he said.
Ongoing Search and Rescue Operations
Following the incident, the Theatre Command activated a coordinated search-and-rescue operation involving troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and local vigilante groups. The security forces are currently conducting deliberate operations at suspected locations of the terrorists, with all available resources deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted chairman.
"The Theatre Command assures the Government and people of Zamfara State that every lawful and operational measure is being taken to achieve a successful outcome," Danja added. He appealed to the public to remain calm and provide credible information through established security channels to assist the ongoing operation.
The security forces remain resolute in their mandate to protect lives and property until the chairman is safely reunited with his family and the perpetrators are brought to justice.
