A swift military intervention has led to the rescue of abducted worshippers in Kaduna State, the Nigerian Army has said.
The Nigerian Army says its troops successfully disrupted an abduction operation in Kaduna State, forcing armed assailants to release dozens of worshippers taken during a church service.
In a statement, the Army confirmed that 31 members of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) were taken from a church in Ariko Village, Kachia Local Government Area, during an Easter service before troops swiftly intervened.
According to the military, a distress alert prompted an immediate deployment of soldiers to the area, where they engaged the attackers in pursuit operations supported by local residents.
The Army said sustained pressure from advancing troops compelled the assailants to abandon the abducted worshippers and flee the scene. One of the rescued victims reportedly sustained injuries and is receiving medical care.
It also confirmed that five persons lost their lives during the incident, while their remains have been recovered. The military added that traces of blood along escape routes suggest the attackers may have suffered additional casualties.
Following the operation, troops have continued pursuit missions aimed at tracking down the perpetrators and dismantling their hideouts, with efforts ongoing to rescue any remaining victims.
The Army further disclosed that additional reinforcements have been deployed to strengthen security in the area and prevent further incidents.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the military urged residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing operations.
