Church members who were abducted during a worship service in Kurmin Wali community, located along the Kufana axis of Kajuru Local Government Area in Kaduna State, have been released after spending several weeks in captivity. The victims were taken on January 18, 2026, when armed men invaded the area and forced worshippers into nearby forests.

Reports revealed that no fewer than 177 people were kidnapped during the attack, an incident that caused widespread fear and anger across Kaduna State. The abduction drew attention to the persistent security challenges facing rural communities, especially places of worship.

According to community sources, the victims were freed late Wednesday night. Heavy-duty vehicles were reportedly seen moving in and out of a forest near Maro town between 11pm and 2am. While the freed persons were brought out early Friday morning, details surrounding their release remain unclear, including whether any ransom was paid.

Confirming the development, the village head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, said the released victims—made up of children, women and adults—are currently in government custody. A security source also verified the release, adding that the victims were taken to the Kaduna State Government House for debriefing. As of press time, the state government had not issued an official statement.