Kaduna Church Attack: Troops Rescue 31, Recover Five Bodies
Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 31 abducted worshippers following a terrorist attack on a church in Kaduna State, while the bodies of five killed victims were also recovered.
The incident occurred during an Easter service at an ECWA Church in Ariko Village, Kachia Local Government Area, where gunmen stormed the worship centre and abducted several congregants.
In a statement, the Army said the troops responded swiftly after receiving a distress call from the community.
According to the statement, the soldiers, with the support of local residents, mobilised to the scene and pursued the fleeing terrorists, engaging them in a firefight.
“The troops, on receipt of the information, promptly mobilised to the scene. With the support and guidance of members of the Ariko community, they advanced in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists and engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight,” the statement said.
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The Army said the troops overwhelmed the attackers with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon 31 hostages, including one injured victim who is currently receiving medical attention.
It added that the remains of five victims killed by the terrorists were recovered at the scene.
The military noted that the fleeing attackers were believed to have sustained casualties, as blood trails were observed along their escape routes.
Troops have since launched intensified operations to track the terrorists and rescue any remaining captives.
“To consolidate the gains recorded, additional troops have been deployed to the area to reinforce ongoing operations and prevent further threats to lives and property,” the statement added.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians and sustaining offensive operations against criminal elements across the country.
Residents were also urged to support security agencies with credible information to aid ongoing efforts.
By PRNigeria
