Relief swept across Kaduna State on Wednesday as no fewer than 82 Christian worshippers abducted during a church service in Kurmin Wali village, Kajuru Local Government Area, regained their freedom after weeks in captivity.
Governor Uba Sani confirmed the breakthrough, describing it as the outcome of a carefully coordinated security operation involving the Kaduna State Government, the Department of State Services and the Office of the National Security Adviser. According to official accounts, more than 100 victims, including women, children and infants, were freed during the operation, although 82 have so far been formally confirmed and received by the state.
The worshippers were kidnapped on January 18 when heavily armed bandits stormed a church in Kurmin Wali during a service, seizing 177 people and plunging the rural community into grief and fear. In the aftermath of the attack, 11 victims reportedly escaped on their own, while 166 remained in the custody of their abductors until the latest rescue effort.
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Governor Sani announced the development during a visit to the Women and Children Shelter in Kaduna, where the rescued victims are currently undergoing medical checks and psychological care. He described their ordeal as traumatic and expressed deep sympathy to the victims and their families, assuring them that the government had not relented in its efforts.
The governor stressed that security agencies were still working around the clock to secure the release of those believed to be remaining in captivity, expressing optimism that they would regain freedom within days. He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to confront banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
Sani commended operatives of the DSS, ONSA and other security agencies for what he called their courage, professionalism and swift action. He also urged residents to continue supporting security efforts by sharing credible information, noting that community cooperation remains critical to restoring lasting peace in Kaduna.
