Kaduna Abduction: 80 Worshippers Escape, 86 Still Held by Bandits

Kaduna Abduction: 80 Worshippers Escape, 86 Still Held by Bandits

At least 86 abducted worshippers are still being held captive by armed bandits in Kaduna State, even as 80 victims managed to escape from their captors’ camp after days in the forest.

The worshippers were abducted when bandits stormed Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area during a church service, whisking scores of people into the bush. The incident sparked outrage and renewed fears over worsening insecurity in southern Kaduna.

Confirming the development, community leaders disclosed that the 80 escapees fled the bandits’ camp under unclear circumstances, trekking for hours through nearby forests before finding safety in neighbouring villages. The survivors, many of whom were exhausted and traumatised, have since reunited with their families.

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However, 86 other worshippers remain in captivity, heightening anxiety among relatives and residents. Families of the abducted victims are calling on the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to urgently intensify rescue operations to secure the release of those still held.

Local sources said fear has gripped surrounding communities, as residents worry the bandits may launch fresh attacks. Some villagers have reportedly fled their homes, while church activities and social gatherings remain largely suspended.

The latest abduction adds to a growing list of kidnapping incidents in Kaduna, particularly in rural communities where residents complain of inadequate security presence. Community leaders have renewed calls for stronger military operations, improved intelligence gathering, and sustained patrols to curb banditry in the region.

As of the time of filing this report, security agencies are yet to issue an official update on efforts to rescue the remaining captives.

 

Kaduna Abduction: 80 Worshippers Escape, 86 Still Held by Bandits