Six imams have been kidnapped by armed bandits in Nigeria’s northwestern Zamfara state, police said on Sunday, as criminal groups continue to profit from ransom kidnappings across the country.
The victims were travelling to Talata Mafara when armed assailants ambushed their vehicle along the Dakko–Damri feeder road on Saturday, according to Zamfara police.
Police said the attackers were carrying sophisticated weapons and intercepted the vehicle before abducting all six men.
Security forces launch search operation
Security teams have launched an intensive search for the missing imams, combing surrounding bushes in an effort to rescue them and arrest those responsible, police said.
Nigerian media reported that the imams were expected to attend a religious gathering hosted by former Zamfara Governor Abdul'aziz Abubakar Yari at his home in Talata Mafara.
Yari, who is now a senator, is reportedly preparing to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s bid for re-election in January.
Kidnappings have become a major source of income for armed groups in Nigeria.
A report by Nigerian consultancy SBM Intelligence published in August estimated that nearly $6 million in ransom payments had been made in Nigeria over the previous year.
Insecurity shapes election campaign
The worsening security situation, alongside economic difficulties, has become a major issue in Nigeria’s election campaign.
Authorities have struggled to contain armed groups operating across several northern states, where mass kidnappings and attacks on communities have raised concerns over public safety and the government’s ability to tackle insecurity.
