Mass Kidnapping Raises Security Concerns as Hostages Move Through Remote Bush Paths in Southern Kaduna
Bandits have been spotted trekking through bush paths in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, with 166 churchgoers abducted during attacks on three local churches, the village head confirmed.
The assailants struck during Sunday worship, initially abducting 177 worshippers, but 11 later escaped, leaving 166 still in captivity. Eyewitnesses report that the bandits are moving the victims through remote forested areas, making rescue operations difficult.
Local authorities initially denied the abduction, but confirmations from community leaders have since highlighted the severity of the incident. The kidnappers are reportedly demanding recovery or repayment of motorcycles allegedly lost during previous military operations before entering ransom negotiations.
Security experts warn that the dense bushlands in Southern Kaduna provide bandits with safe passage, emphasizing the need for urgent government action to secure the release of the hostages.
