The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the abduction of over 100 Christian worshippers in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, days after earlier comments from security officials cast doubt on whether the incident occurred.
In a statement on Tuesday, Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the police were aware of the “deep concern generated by reports of the abduction” and acknowledged the fear the incident had caused residents and the general public.
Hundeyin explained that the confusion followed a meeting of the Kaduna State Security Council, convened by Governor Uba Sani, where some individuals from the affected local government area disputed the report and described it as false, despite earlier police confirmation.
He clarified that comments made by the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, were misunderstood and were not intended as a denial, but as a cautious response pending verification of details from the field, including the identities and number of those abducted.
“Subsequent checks by our operational units and intelligence sources have now confirmed that the incident did occur,” the police spokesman said.
Following the confirmation, Hundeyin said coordinated security operations had been activated in collaboration with other security agencies to rescue the victims and restore calm in the area.
According to him, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the deployment of critical operational and intelligence assets to Kajuru and surrounding communities, including tactical units, intensified patrols and targeted search-and-rescue operations.
The police appealed to the public and the media to exercise restraint, urging them to rely on official updates and avoid speculation that could undermine ongoing rescue efforts.
“The Force remains fully committed to the safety of all citizens and will continue to provide updates as developments unfold,” Hundeyin added.
