The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed that over 100 worshippers were abducted during attacks on churches in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State—a reversal that comes 24 hours after authorities dismissed the reports as false.
Armed gunmen stormed three churches in the community on Sunday, abducting approximately 167 congregants during worship services.
On Monday, the Kaduna State Police Command had rejected these reports, with State Commissioner of Police Muhammad Rabiu describing them as fabrications by “conflict entrepreneurs” attempting to destabilize the region’s fragile peace. During a press conference in Kaduna, Rabiu challenged anyone claiming the abductions occurred to provide victims’ names and details, stating that police records showed no such incident.
Following the police denial, Christian Solidarity Worldwide–Nigeria (CSW-N), a human rights organization, insisted the kidnappings had taken place and accused security forces of hindering independent verification efforts. The group reported that security personnel blocked their fact-finding team from entering the community, despite the team presenting proper credentia
In a statement released Tuesday, Force Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin explained that the initial confusion stemmed from a Kaduna State Security Council meeting chaired by Governor Uba Sani, during which some Kajuru LGA representatives contested the abduction claims, calling them untrue.
Hundeyin clarified that the commissioner’s earlier media comments were intended to prevent widespread panic while investigations were underway, rather than to outright deny the incident.
“Subsequent verification from operational units and intelligence sources has confirmed that the incident did occur,” the police statement acknowledged.
Following confirmation of the mass abduction, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has ordered the deployment of specialized tactical units and intelligence resources to Kajuru and neighboring communities. The operation includes enhanced patrols, focused search-and-rescue missions, and preventive measures to safeguard residents.
Hundeyin appealed to the public and media to depend on official police channels for accurate information, cautioning against speculation that could compromise ongoing rescue operations. He promised regular updates as the situation develops.
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