The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has said that the safe rescue and reintegration of all 163 kidnapped victims at Kurmin Wali in Kaduna State remains a top priority.

The Military High Command acknowledged the concerns expressed by displaced residents regarding efforts to secure the release of their abducted family members.

The Director of Defence Media Operations (DMO), Maj-Gen Michael Onoja, gave the assurance in a statement, noting that contrary to assertions of a slow response, the AFN, in close collaboration with other security agencies, has been executing sustained, intelligence-driven operations in the vicinity and surrounding forested areas believed to harbour the perpetrators.

Onoja said the operations include “a strategic amalgamation of ground patrols, surveillance, intelligence gathering, and targeted initiatives meticulously designed to locate the kidnappers and secure the hostages without jeopardising their safety.”

He added, “The AFN recognises the distress and trepidation experienced by the affected families and underscores that operational restraint in certain instances is a deliberate strategy, guided by the imperative to safeguard the captives and avert unintended harm.

“While specific operational details must remain confidential for security considerations, substantial efforts are underway to dismantle the criminal networks responsible for the abductions.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain unwavering in its mandate to protect lives and property and is steadfastly committed to reuniting the kidnapped victims of Kurmin Wali with their families.”

Onoja appealed for sustained public support, patience, and cooperation as the operations progress toward a successful resolution.

On January 18, 2025, terrorists invaded the community, kidnapping 167 people during a church service on Sunday.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) confirmed the attack, saying 177 were initially abducted. Enoch Kaura, CAN’s chairperson in Kajuru LGA, said that of the 177 abducted, about 10 people escaped.

He called on security forces to ensure the remaining hostages are rescued.

Initially, the Police, Kajuru Local Government Area Chairman, and the Kaduna State Government disputed the attack, asking CAN to provide evidence that people were abducted.

However, the police later admitted that the attack “did occur” and that people were kidnapped.

Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said in a statement that the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the deployment of operatives for the safe rescue of the abducted persons.