Kurmin Wali, Kajuru LGA, Kaduna State – The Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Mr. Ishaku Dan’azumi, has reported that the 177 Christian worshippers abducted during Sunday church services were sighted on Thursday morning being moved on foot through the Maro axis of Kajuru Local Government Area.
The traditional ruler explained that the movement follows threats issued by the bandits on Wednesday evening after noticing the presence of security forces in the area.
They called us yesterday evening and threatened the community, accusing us of bringing soldiers. They said we were claiming to have ‘big people’ backing us because of the military presence, Dan’azumi said.
He added that the community assured the abductors that they had no connections with military forces, after which the call ended.
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Residents later reported sightings of the abductors moving through bush paths with the captives early Thursday morning.
Dan’azumi called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and rescue operations, emphasizing the urgent need to ensure the safe return of the worshippers.
Kurmin Wali, Ungwan Gamu, and Maro are rural communities in Southern Kaduna, an area long affected by banditry, mass abductions, and attacks on farmlands. Despite ongoing military operations, bandits continue to exploit the difficult terrain, targeting places of worship, villages, and highways.
The recent abduction has heightened tension across Kajuru LGA, with families anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. Negotiations with the abductors have reportedly included demands for the return of 17 motorcycles allegedly lost during military operations, complicating efforts for a swift release.
This incident has sparked renewed calls from religious leaders, community stakeholders, and civil society organizations for decisive action to end mass kidnappings in Southern Kaduna.
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