At least 80 worshippers who escaped abduction during a deadly bandit attack on Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have returned to their homes after spending nearly two weeks displaced in neighbouring villages.
The return followed sustained security operations in the area, although dozens of victims remain in captivity.
The Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, confirmed the development while speaking in a telephone interview on Sunday.
He explained that confusion initially surrounded the number of worshippers affected during the raid, which occurred on a Sunday night when armed men stormed the community during a religious gathering.
According to Dan’azumi, early reports suggested that as many as 177 worshippers were kidnapped during the attack, sparking widespread panic across Kajuru.
However, further assessment revealed that a significant number of the victims managed to escape from the bandits shortly after the abduction and fled into surrounding villages for safety.
“Out of the total number earlier reported, 80 people escaped and hid in nearby communities,” the traditional ruler said.
“They only returned home after spending about two weeks away because they were afraid the bandits might come back.”
He clarified that despite the return of the escapees, the Kurmin Wali abduction is far from resolved, as 86 worshippers are still being held hostage by the attackers.
The continued captivity of the victims has left families traumatised and uncertain about the fate of their loved ones.
Dan’azumi expressed concern over what he described as attempts by some individuals to politicise the tragedy, stressing that the situation on ground is deeply painful for affected families.
He appealed to government authorities and security agencies to prioritise the rescue of those still in captivity.
“Our people are going through serious emotional trauma,” he said.
“This is not a political issue. We are appealing to the government and the military to act quickly and ensure the safe return of the remaining abducted worshippers.”
A military source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, attributed the return of the displaced worshippers to intensified security operations across Kajuru and adjoining forest corridors known to serve as hideouts for criminal groups.
The source said troops have increased patrols and launched targeted offensives aimed at disrupting bandit movements in the area.
According to the source, the sustained pressure from security forces has reduced the frequency of attacks in some communities, giving residents the confidence to cautiously return to their homes.
However, the military source declined to provide details on rescue efforts or negotiations regarding those still held by the bandits.
Meanwhile, the security situation in Kajuru has been further complicated by fresh violence.
On Tuesday, suspected bandits reportedly attacked Maikori community in Maro Ward of Kajuru Local Government Area, killing three residents.
The incident has heightened fear among locals and raised concerns about the spread of violence across neighbouring communities.
A resident, who requested anonymity for security reasons, identified the victims as Hassan Agola, Lawal Samson, and Baba Apolo.
He said the attackers stormed the community unexpectedly, causing residents to flee for safety.
Community members recalled that the original Kajuru bandit attack on Kurmin Wali occurred late at night when gunmen invaded the village during a worship session.
Several worshippers were abducted, while others escaped into nearby bushes and villages under the cover of darkness.
Since the attack, families of the abducted worshippers have been living in constant anxiety, with many relying on community support and prayers as they await news of their loved ones.
Although the return of the 80 escapees has brought some relief, fear remains widespread due to the continued presence of armed groups in surrounding forests.
A community source disclosed that security forces have stepped up patrols and surveillance operations in recent days, which has helped prevent further large-scale attacks in some areas.
However, residents and local leaders insist that temporary operations are not enough.
The latest killings in Maikori have further heightened tension across Kajuru, prompting renewed calls for a stronger and more permanent security presence.
Community leaders have urged the government to establish forward operating bases and improve intelligence-gathering to prevent future attacks.
When contacted for official reaction, the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said the police would issue a comprehensive report on the Kurmin Wali abduction and related incidents.
“The police will come out with a detailed report surrounding the Kurmin Wali abduction,” he assured, adding that investigations and coordination with other security agencies are ongoing.
As communities across Kajuru continue to grapple with fear and uncertainty, residents hope that sustained security action will not only secure the release of those still in captivity but also restore lasting peace to the troubled area.
Ireport247news
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