Kurmin Wali community in southern Kaduna has plunged into fear after gunmen abducted 177 Christian worshippers. The coordinated attack marked the second violent incident in the area within one week. On Sunday morning, armed men stormed three churches during worship services.
They seized more than 100 worshippers and marched them into surrounding forests. Initial reports faced denial from state authorities and local government officials. However, police later confirmed the abductions after verifying field intelligence.
Residents immediately fled their homes, abandoning farms, schools, and daily activities. Many families sought refuge in neighbouring villages to escape further attacks. A villager, Linus Abu, said the community recently paid ransom after a January 11 abduction. According to him, residents raised N23 million to free earlier victims.Reports revealed that 11 captives escaped during the latest abduction.
Meanwhile, 166 victims, including women and children, remain in captivity. Unlike previous cases, the abductors have not demanded direct ransom payments. Instead, they demanded the return of 17 motorcycles lost during military operations. Each motorcycle allegedly costs N1.7 million, totalling N28.9 million.
Community leaders confirmed ongoing negotiations through appointed intermediaries. Bandits accused villagers of stealing motorcycles and removing vital parts. They insisted captives would remain held until the motorcycles were replaced. The village head linked the attack to ongoing military offensives nearby.
Military sources confirmed bandits were fleeing pressure from sustained security operations. The attackers reportedly acted in retaliation for lost logistics and camps. Fear continues spreading as markets remain deserted and schools closed indefinitely.
Families criticised delayed responses and conflicting government statements. Church officials described the attack as organised and deliberately executed. With negotiations stalled, the fate of abducted worshippers remains uncertain.
