Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued 31 civilians who were abducted during an Easter church service in Ariko Village, located in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The incident occurred when suspected terrorists reportedly invaded an ECWA Church during worship and took several congregants hostage. According to a statement released by the Army on Sunday, security forces responded swiftly after receiving a distress call from the community.
The troops were said to have mobilised immediately and, with assistance from local residents, pursued the attackers as they attempted to flee. During the operation, soldiers engaged the armed group in a gun battle and overpowered them with superior firepower.
The Army confirmed that the intense pressure from advancing troops forced the attackers to abandon 31 hostages. Among those rescued was one injured victim who is currently receiving medical treatment.
However, the operation also revealed tragic losses. Security forces recovered the bodies of five victims who had been killed by the attackers before the rescue mission. The Army noted that signs such as blood trails along escape routes suggest that the fleeing terrorists may have suffered casualties during the confrontation.
Following the rescue, troops have intensified efforts to track down the remaining attackers and secure the area. Authorities say operations are ongoing to locate any additional captives and bring those responsible to justice.
To strengthen security in the region, additional military personnel have been deployed to reinforce existing operations and prevent further attacks. The Army emphasised its continued commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining national security in collaboration with other security agencies and local communities.
Residents have also been urged to support security efforts by providing timely and reliable information that could aid ongoing operations.
The successful rescue highlights the importance of rapid response and community cooperation in addressing security threats, particularly during vulnerable periods such as religious gatherings.
