The Theatre Command of Operation FANSAN YAMMA has confirmed the abduction of the Chairman of Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Alhaji Nura Abdullahi, following a deadly attack on his residence by suspected bandits in the early hours of Saturday.

The command disclosed that the attackers overpowered the chairman's security detail before abducting him and some members of his family.

In a statement issued in Gusau, the Media Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lt.-Col. Aliyu Danja, said troops responded swiftly after hearing gunshots and immediately launched a pursuit of the fleeing terrorists, leading to a fierce exchange of fire.

According to him, the troops' prompt intervention forced the attackers to abandon five members of the chairman's family, including two of his children, his wife, mother and another relative, who were successfully rescued.

He, however, said the bandits escaped into nearby bushes with the council chairman.

The attack claimed the lives of the chairman's security personnel, comprising two police officers and a local vigilante, who were killed while resisting the attackers.

A civilian also lost his life during the incident, while the chairman's elder brother, Alhaji Bello Umar, sustained injuries.

Danja said the Theatre Command had 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 vigilantes.

He stated that security forces were conducting intensive operations at suspected terrorist hideouts to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted chairman, adding that all available operational resources had been deployed to the mission.

The command assured the Zamfara State Government and residents that every lawful measure was being taken to secure the chairman's release and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

It also appealed to members of the public to remain calm, continue their lawful activities and provide credible information to security agencies to support the ongoing rescue operation.

Operation FANSAN YAMMA reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, pledging to continue working with other security agencies until the abducted local government chairman is safely reunited with his family and the perpetrators are brought to justice.