Police Confirm Terrorist Abduction of Worshippers in Kaduna

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed that worshippers were abducted by terrorists in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, reversing an earlier denial by the Kaduna State Police Command.

The incident, which occurred during church services last Sunday, was initially reported by church leaders and civil society groups as a coordinated attack that led to the abduction of more than 160 worshippers, including members of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church. At the time, the Police dismissed the reports, stating that there was no verified evidence of an attack or missing persons.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, explained that the initial denial was based on conflicting accounts presented at a Kaduna State Security Council meeting. According to him, some representatives from the affected area disputed the reports, prompting further verification by security agencies.

Subsequent checks by police operational units and intelligence assets have now confirmed that the abduction did take place.

Following this confirmation, security operations have been intensified in Kajuru and surrounding communities, with a focus on rescue efforts and stabilising the area.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the deployment of tactical teams, enhanced intelligence support, and sustained patrols to the affected locations.

Police authorities said efforts are ongoing to reconcile the number and identities of those abducted, and urged the public and the media to rely on official updates as operations continue.