The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has officially confirmed that gunmen abducted over 100 residents—primarily worshippers—from the Kurmin Wali community in the Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The attack, which occurred on Sunday, January 18, 2026, targeted three churches (ECWA, Cherubim and Seraphim 1 & 2) and left the community in shock. Initial reports were met with denial by some local officials, but after “thorough verification and intelligence assessments,” the police acknowledged the incident and activated a coordinated rescue operation.
According to Force Public Relations Officer CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Inspector‑General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the full deployment of tactical units and intelligence assets to Kajuru and surrounding areas. The operation includes intensified patrols, targeted search‑and‑rescue missions, and other proactive measures aimed at safely locating and rescuing the victims while restoring calm to the region.
Community leaders and rights groups, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Christian Solidarity Worldwide–Nigeria, have reported that at least 177 people were taken, with nine later escaping, leaving about 163 still in captivity. The abductors have reportedly demanded the return of 10 hidden motorcycles as a condition for release, a demand the community says it cannot meet.
The police have urged the public and media to rely on official statements for verified information and to avoid speculation that could jeopardize ongoing operations.