From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
Eighty worshippers who escaped abduction during a bandit attack on the Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have returned home after spending about two weeks in refuge in neighboring villages.
The Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Mr. Ishaku Dan’azumi, confirmed the development, stating that 86 worshippers remain in bandit captivity.
He appealed to the government and military to expedite action to secure the safe return of the remaining captives.
A military source attributed the return of the displaced worshippers to sustained security operations targeting bandits’ hideouts across Kajuru and adjoining forest corridors.
However, details surrounding the escape and the circumstances of those still in captivity remain sketchy.
The development comes amid renewed violence in the area, as bandits launched a fresh attack on the Maikori community in Maro Ward of Kajuru Local Government Area, killing three residents identified as Hassan Agola, Lawal Samson, and Baba Apolo.
Residents recalled that Kurmin Wali was attacked when armed men stormed the community and abducted worshippers, forcing many to flee their homes in fear. Families of the abducted worshippers remain anxious but hopeful for their safe return.
The Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said the police will provide a comprehensive report on the incident.
Kajuru Local Government Area has remained a hotspot for banditry in Kaduna State, with repeated attacks resulting in loss of life, displacement, and property destruction.
