Troops of the Nigerian Army have foiled a terrorist attack and rescued 31 worshippers abducted during an Easter service in Ariko Village, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
In a statement issued Sunday evening, the Army said the operation was launched following a distress call reporting that worshippers were taken from an ECWA Church during the service.
According to the statement, troops swiftly mobilised to the area and, with support from members of the Ariko community, pursued the attackers and engaged them in a gun battle.
The Army said the troops overpowered the assailants, forcing them to abandon 31 hostages, including one injured victim who is currently receiving medical attention.
However, it noted that the remains of five victims killed by the attackers were recovered at the scene.
The statement added that the fleeing attackers are believed to have suffered casualties, as indicated by blood trails along their escape routes, while troops have intensified operations to track them down and rescue any remaining captives.
To sustain the momentum, additional troops have been deployed to the area to strengthen security and prevent further attacks.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and maintaining Nigeria’s territorial integrity, urging the public to support security agencies with timely and credible information.
