JUST IN: Bandits Abduct Over 100 Worshippers in Coordinated Kaduna Church Attacks

JUST IN: Bandits Abduct Over 100 Worshippers in Coordinated Kaduna Church Attacks

Armed bandits have abducted over 100 worshippers in a series of coordinated church attacks in Kaduna State, triggering widespread fear and renewed concern over worsening insecurity in northern Nigeria. The attacks reportedly occurred on Sunday in communities within Kajuru Local Government Area, where gunmen stormed churches during worship services and whisked congregants away into nearby forests.

Local sources said the assailants arrived in large numbers, firing shots to scare residents before rounding up worshippers, including women and youths. A few victims — mainly the elderly and those unable to keep up — were later released, while the majority remain in captivity.

READ ALSO:

• 10‑Man Real Sociedad Shock Barcelona With 2‑1 LaLiga Victory
• Police Detain 52 After Anti-Kidnapping Protest Turns Violent in Ekpoma
• Israel PM Netanyahu Challenges U.S.-Backed Gaza Panel, Holds Coalition Talks

Security agencies have launched search-and-rescue operations, although official confirmation on the exact number of abductees is still awaited. The Kaduna State Government is yet to issue a detailed statement, but residents say military and police units have been deployed to the affected areas.

The latest incident adds to a growing list of bandit attacks, kidnappings, and assaults on places of worship in Kaduna and other parts of the North-West. In recent months, gunmen have targeted churches, schools, and highways, abducting civilians and demanding ransom, despite repeated assurances by authorities of intensified security operations.

Religious leaders and civil society groups have condemned the attacks, calling for urgent protection of worship centres, stronger intelligence gathering, and decisive action against bandit networks operating across Kaduna’s forest corridors.

JUST IN: Bandits Abduct Over 100 Worshippers in Coordinated Kaduna Church Attacks