Police Clarify Earlier Stance, Confirm Kidnapping of Worshippers in Kaduna Community

The Nigeria Police Force has officially confirmed the abduction of Christian worshippers in Kurmi Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, following earlier public statements that generated uncertainty over the incident.

The confirmation was made on Tuesday after what the police described as additional intelligence checks and field assessments. This development led to the deployment of more security personnel and assets to the affected area.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the police disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered the immediate deployment of tactical and intelligence units to Kajuru and surrounding communities. The move, he said, was aimed at supporting rescue operations and reinforcing security.
Hundeyin noted that intensified patrols, along with targeted search-and-rescue operations, had commenced, stressing that the protection of lives and the restoration of calm remain the top priorities of the Force.
He explained that the initial confusion arose from contradictory reports presented during a Kaduna State Security Council meeting convened by Governor Uba Sani after news of the abduction emerged. According to the police, some representatives from the affected local government disputed the report at the meeting, describing it as untrue, which necessitated caution and further verification before issuing a definitive statement.
“This situation underscored the importance of thorough verification before making conclusive pronouncements on sensitive security issues,” the statement said.
The police further clarified that comments earlier linked to the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, were not intended to deny the incident. Rather, they were described as a temporary measure to prevent public panic while efforts were ongoing to confirm details, including the number and identities of the victims.
“Subsequent intelligence and operational reports have now established that the incident did take place,” Hundeyin said.
Following this confirmation, the police said coordinated security operations involving other relevant agencies had been activated, with a focus on locating and rescuing the abducted worshippers safely.
The Force appealed to members of the public and the media to depend on official sources for verified information and to avoid speculation that could jeopardize ongoing operations or heighten public anxiety.
The police reassured Nigerians of their commitment to safeguarding lives and property, promising to provide further updates as investigations and rescue efforts continue.