Bandits Set Conditions for Release of Abducted Worshippers
Bandits who abducted 177 worshippers from three churches in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have demanded the return of 17 motorcycles as a condition for releasing the 166 victims still in captivity.
The worshippers were seized during coordinated attacks on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at two Cherubim and Seraphim churches and the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) church. Eleven victims later escaped.
Community Flees as Fear Spreads
Residents have abandoned their homes, farms remain untended, and schools have shut indefinitely as fear grips the community. A visit to the area on Wednesday showed a deserted market and locked shops, with remaining residents unwilling to speak openly.
Linus Abu, a villager, said the community was still recovering from a January 11 attack in which several residents were kidnapped and released only after a ₦23 million ransom was paid.
Bandits Reject Cash, Demand Motorcycles
Abu said the abductors claimed to have lost 17 motorcycles during recent military operations and demanded that the community replace them before any ransom negotiations could begin.
“They said each bike is worth ₦1.7 million, and we must pay for all of them before they will demand the actual ransom for the hostages,” he said.
Village Head Ishaku Dan’azumi confirmed that the bandits contacted a community negotiator and accused residents of stealing and damaging the motorcycles.
“Apart from the issue of the motorcycles and replacement of some parts, they have not asked for money,” Dan’azumi said.
Police Denial Sparks Outrage
The abduction initially drew controversy after the Kaduna State police command and the Kajuru local government chairman dismissed reports of the attack. The police later confirmed the incident, saying tactical units had been deployed to rescue the victims.
The Adara Development Association (ADA) accused the police commissioner and the council chairman of suppressing facts and demanded a public apology.
Military Links Attack to Ongoing Operations
Military sources said the attack was carried out by bandits fleeing sustained operations in neighbouring Kauru Local Government Area, where several camps were recently destroyed.
The sources said the abduction appeared retaliatory, aimed at replacing lost logistics and instilling fear as the bandits fled military pressure.
Troops have since been placed on full alert, with ongoing pursuit operations across forest corridors linking Kauru and Kajuru.
Community Awaits Rescue
Church officials confirmed that the attackers moved from church to church, gathering worshippers and marching them into the forest. Women and children are among those still held.
Residents and community leaders have appealed to the Federal and Kaduna State governments to intensify security operations and secure the release of the captives.
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