Kidnapped worshippers abducted from churches in Kurmin Wali, Kaduna State, have regained freedom weeks after the January 18 attack
Worshippers abducted from churches in Kurmin Wali town, Kaduna State, have been released weeks after their kidnapping.
Also read: Kwara Gov confirms Islamic extremists’ presence after deadly attacks
Armed bandits attacked two churches in the Kufana axis of Kajuru Local Government Area on January 18, 2026.
The attackers kidnapped more than 160 worshippers during Sunday service at about 11:25 a.m.
A community leader, who spoke anonymously, said the victims were released late on Thursday, February 5, 2026.
He described the circumstances surrounding their release as unclear.
According to him, heavy-duty vehicles were seen entering a forest near Maro town between 11 p.m. and midnight.
The vehicles reportedly returned between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. with the abducted worshippers.
“We do not know who went to collect them or who released them,” the community leader said.
He added that the community could not yet confirm whether all the abducted victims were freed.
The village head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, confirmed the release.
He said those freed included children, women, and adults.
Dan’azumi declined to give further details, noting only that the victims were now in government custody.
At least 177 worshippers were initially abducted during the attack.
Nine victims escaped shortly after the incident, leaving over 160 unaccounted for at the time.
Security agencies had earlier deployed resources to Kajuru and surrounding areas to secure the victims’ release.
Also read: Kwara Gov confirms Islamic extremists’ presence after deadly attacks
The Kaduna State Police Command and other authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the development.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
