Worshippers abducted from churches in the Kurmin Wali community, along the Kufana axis of Kaduna State’s Kajuru Local Government Area, have regained their freedom after weeks in captivity.
The victims were kidnapped on January 18, 2026, when gunmen stormed the community during church services and forced scores of worshippers into nearby forests. Reports indicated that at least 177 people were taken, sparking widespread outrage and concern across the state.
The hostages were reportedly released late Wednesday night, after heavy-duty vehicles were seen entering and leaving a forest near Maro town between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. Community leaders told Daily Trust that the abducted individuals were brought out in the early hours of Friday. It remains unclear who facilitated the release or whether any ransom was paid.
Confirming the development, Kurmin Wali village head Ishaku Dan’azumi said the freed worshippers—including children, women, and adults—are now in government custody. A security source also corroborated the release.
The victims were reportedly taken to Government House in Kaduna for debriefing. As of filing, the Kaduna State Government has yet to issue an official statement.
