Kaduna, Nigeria – In a joint security operation, authorities have rescued seven kidnap victims taken during a deadly terrorist attack on churches in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, on Easter Sunday.
Gunmen stormed two Christian worship centres — the First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church — during Easter celebrations, killing at least seven people and abducting several others. The assault threw the community into panic as worshippers were attacked in what should have been a day of joy.
According to local accounts, the attackers arrived in large numbers, operated for about an hour, shot at congregants, and abducted many before fleeing into the bush with their victims. They also reportedly stole offerings from the services. Women and children were among those taken.
Kaduna State Police Command, working with other security agencies, confirmed the rescue of seven kidnap victims following a swift response to distress calls. The joint operation involved troops who engaged the terrorists in a fierce firefight, forcing them to abandon some of the hostages.
The Nigerian Army later provided more details on the broader rescue effort, stating that troops rescued 31 civilians in total. One injured victim is receiving medical attention, and the remains of five people killed by the attackers were recovered at the scene. Blood trails suggested the terrorists suffered casualties during their escape.
Caleb Ma’aji, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna State, confirmed the attack targeted both a Catholic and an evangelical church, with reports of seven deaths. Councillor Mark Bawa of Awon Ward, who represents the area, visited the community to verify casualty figures, which initially ranged between seven and eight killed.
The military has intensified pursuit operations to track down the fleeing terrorists, rescue any remaining captives, and bring the perpetrators to justice. Additional troops have been deployed to the area to strengthen security and prevent further threats.
This incident highlights the persistent security challenges in northwest Nigeria, where banditry, kidnappings for ransom, and attacks on communities and places of worship remain a serious concern despite ongoing military efforts.
The Kaduna State Police Command has urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, while investigations continue to determine the full extent of the abduction and identify those responsible. Families of the victims are receiving support, and the rescued individuals are being debriefed and provided with necessary assistance.
Authorities have assured the public that no effort will be spared to ensure the safe return of any other missing persons and to restore peace to the Ariko community.
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