JUST IN: ONSA, DSS, KADUNA GOVT. RESCUE KIDNAPPED KAJURU WORSHIPPERS

A joint security operation led by the Kaduna State Government, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has successfully rescued scores of worshippers abducted during a church service in Kurmin Wali village, Kajuru Local Government Area, on January 18.

Governor Uba Sani confirmed on Wednesday that 82 of the kidnapped worshippers have been safely returned.

However, a credible security source revealed that the total number of victims rescued in the operation exceeded 100, including children and infants.

According to the source, the victims were freed through a carefully coordinated operation involving operatives from the DSS, ONSA, and security personnel deployed by the Kaduna State Government.

The church in Kurmin Wali was attacked by bandits during worship, resulting in the abduction of 177 people and plunging the community into panic and grief.

In the days following the attack, 11 worshippers regained their freedom, leaving 166 in captivity prior to the recent rescue.Governor Sani visited the victims at the Women and Children Shelter in Kaduna, where they are currently receiving medical treatment and psychosocial support.

He expressed sympathy to the victims and their families over the traumatic ordeal and assured the Kurmin Wali community that efforts to secure the release of the remaining abductees are ongoing.

Sani also expressed optimism that the rest of the captives would regain their freedom within a few days.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to ending banditry and kidnapping across Kaduna State, emphasizing that no effort would be spared to ensure the safe return of every victim.

The governor commended the DSS, ONSA, and other security agencies for their gallantry, professionalism, and swift response during the rescue operation.

He also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could support ongoing operations to restore peace in the area.