By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Kajuru, Kaduna State — Bandits have released the remaining church worshippers abducted during a coordinated attack on three churches in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, following days of captivity after the assault carried out during Sunday worship services.
The attack occurred on Sunday when armed men stormed three churches in Kurmin Wali, firing sporadically to create panic before abducting worshippers and leading them into nearby forests. About 177 worshippers were initially reported kidnapped during the incident.
However, approximately 80 victims later escaped while being taken into the bush and sought refuge in neighbouring communities, leaving 87 worshippers in captivity until their release.
Confirming the development, the Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Mr. Ishaku Dan’azumi, said he received information early Tuesday that the abducted worshippers had been released and were currently with government authorities in Kaduna. He added that he could not confirm whether ransom or motorcycles earlier demanded by the bandits were paid before the release.
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kaduna State Chapter, Reverend Ma’aji Caleb, also confirmed the release, describing it as a moment of relief for affected families. He attributed the development to sustained prayers and government efforts, while commending the Kaduna State Government for its commitment to protecting lives and property.
A senior security officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the remaining worshippers were released on Wednesday night but could not verify the exact number freed.
Meanwhile, a community stakeholder in Kajuru alleged that empty buses and motorcycles were sighted late Wednesday night heading toward nearby bush paths, suggesting they may have been used to transport the victims from captivity.
Security agencies had earlier launched search-and-rescue operations in the area, while community leaders and local authorities worked to account for the abducted worshippers and provide support to affected families.
The incident has once again highlighted the persistent challenge of banditry and attacks on places of worship in parts of Southern Kaduna, particularly in rural communities where residents continue to express concerns over inadequate security presence.
Efforts to obtain official confirmation from the Kaduna State Police Command were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
