A joint security operation coordinated by the Kaduna State government, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has led to the rescue of scores of worshippers abducted during a church attack in Kurmin-Wali village, Kajuru LGA of Kaduna state.
Governor Uba Sani confirmed on Wednesday that 82 of the kidnapped worshippers have safely regained their freedom, following the operation that began after the January 18 abduction. However, credible security sources disclosed that more than 100 victims, including women, children and infants, were freed during the exercise.
The worshippers were among 177 persons abducted when armed bandits stormed churches in Kurmin-Wali during Sunday services, triggering widespread panic in the community. In the days after the attack, 11 victims reportedly escaped, while others remained in captivity until the latest breakthrough.
According to security and community sources, the victims were released late Wednesday night after coordinated movements involving heavy-duty vehicles around forest areas near the Maro axis of Kajuru. Residents reported that the vehicles entered the forest between 11 p.m. and midnight and later returned between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. with the abducted worshippers. The exact circumstances surrounding their release remain unclear, including whether ransom or other demands were met.
Governor Sani confirmed the development during a visit to the rescued victims at the Women and Children Shelter in Kaduna, where they are receiving medical care and psychosocial support. He sympathised with the victims and their families over the traumatic ordeal and assured the Kurmin-Wali community that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of any persons still unaccounted for.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ending banditry and kidnapping across Kaduna State, stressing that no effort would be spared to ensure the safe return of every abductee. He commended the DSS, ONSA and other security agencies for their professionalism, gallantry and swift response.
Also confirming the release, the village head of Kurmin-Wali, Ishaku Ɗan’azumi, expressed appreciation to the state government and security agencies, noting that those freed include children, women and adults and are currently under government care.
Authorities have urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information to support ongoing operations aimed at restoring lasting peace in the area.
