Kurmin Wali Abduction: 80 Worshippers Escape, 86 Still in Captivity – Village Head
The village head of Kurmin Wali has disclosed that 80 worshippers have escaped from captivity following a recent mass abduction, while 86 others remain in the hands of their captors, raising renewed concerns over insecurity in the area.
According to Daily Post, the abduction occurred during a religious gathering in the community, where gunmen stormed the venue and whisked away dozens of worshippers into nearby forests.
Community Leader Speaks
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, the village head said those who escaped managed to flee in small groups under cover of darkness, finding their way back to the community after hours of trekking through bush paths.
“We are grateful that 80 of our people have returned, but 86 are still being held. The community is in deep pain and fear,” he said.
Security Response
The Kaduna State Police Command confirmed awareness of the incident and said joint security teams, including the military and local vigilantes, have been deployed to comb surrounding forests in a bid to rescue the remaining captives.
A police spokesperson said intelligence-led operations are ongoing and urged residents to provide any useful information that could aid the rescue efforts.
Humanitarian Concerns
Families of the abducted worshippers appealed to the government and security agencies to act swiftly, warning that the prolonged captivity could endanger the lives of those still held.
Local leaders and faith groups have begun organising community support and prayer sessions for the safe return of the remaining victims.
Rising Insecurity
The incident adds to a growing list of mass abductions in parts of the North-West, where communities have repeatedly come under attack by armed groups targeting villages, highways, and places of worship.
Call for Action
Civil society organisations have called on federal and state authorities to strengthen rural security, improve intelligence gathering, and address the socio-economic factors driving violence in the region.
Source: Daily Post