Suspected terrorists who abducted at least 166 worshippers in Kurmin Wali village, Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, have increased their ransom demand to N250 million and 20 motorcycles.
The village head, Mr. Ishaku Dan’azumi, said the attack occurred on January 18, 2026, when gunmen stormed a religious gathering, abducting men, women, and youths indiscriminately. He added that the demand is far beyond the capacity of the largely rural community, already weakened by repeated attacks and economic hardship.
Residents of southern Kaduna have long lived under the shadow of banditry and kidnapping, with mass abductions, killings, and arson forcing many families to flee. Community leaders are urging the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to intensify rescue operations and implement stronger protective measures.
During a visit to the affected churches, Kaduna State Police Commissioner Muhammad Rabiu, accompanied by armed operatives, inspected the sites, questioned survivors, and instructed attendees not to record videos or take photos. Video footage shows an injured victim explaining how he escaped the abductors by hiding in a nearby house while carrying his daughter.
