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Eighty worshippers escape abduction and return home two weeks after bandit attack in Kajuru, Kaduna State.
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Eighty-six victims remain in captivity, community leaders appeal for urgent military action.
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Renewed bandit violence heightens fear as fresh attack claims three lives in neighbouring Maikori community.
No fewer than 80 worshippers who escaped abduction during a bandit attack on Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have returned to their homes after spending about two weeks in neighbouring villages.
The Village Head of Kurmin Wali, Mr Ishaku Dan’azumi, confirmed the development in a telephone interview on Sunday, saying the return followed sustained security operations in the area.
Dan’azumi disclosed that although about 177 worshippers were initially believed to have been abducted during the attack, investigations later showed that 80 managed to escape and sought refuge in nearby communities.
He added, however, that 86 worshippers remain in the custody of the bandits, describing the situation as traumatic for affected families.
Dan’azumi warned against attempts to politicise the incident, noting that families of the abducted worshippers were still grappling with fear and uncertainty.
He appealed to the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of those still held captive.
A military source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, attributed the return of the worshippers to sustained offensive operations targeting bandits’ hideouts across Kajuru and adjoining forest corridors.
READ ALSO: Bandits Kidnap Six In Fresh Kaduna Attack
According to the source, troops had increased patrols and pressure on criminal elements in the area, creating openings for some displaced residents to return cautiously to their homes.
Details surrounding how the worshippers escaped and the condition of those still in captivity remain unclear.
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The development came amid renewed violence in Kajuru, as bandits reportedly attacked Maikori community in Maro Ward on Tuesday, killing three residents.
A local resident identified the victims as Hassan Agola, Lawal Samson and Baba Apolo.
Residents recalled that the Kurmin Wali attack occurred on a Sunday night when armed men stormed the community during a worship session, abducting several worshippers and forcing others to flee.
The latest killings have heightened tension across Kajuru Local Government Area, with residents and community leaders calling for a stronger and more permanent security presence to prevent further attacks.