The remaining individuals abducted from Kurmin Wali town in the Kufana axis of Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, have been released. The victims were initially taken by suspected kidnappers on January 18, 2026, during a church service in the community.
A community leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the release occurred on Thursday night. He explained that between 11 p.m. and midnight, heavy-duty vehicles were seen entering a forest near Maro town, returning with the abducted persons between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m.
The identities of those involved in the release and whether all victims were freed remain unclear. It was also not immediately known if any ransom was paid or if the abductors’ demand for 17 motorcycles was met.
Earlier reports indicated that at least 177 people were abducted during the attack. About two weeks after the incident, 80 victims, mostly children, reportedly escaped and sought refuge in forest settlements.
Confirming the development, the village head of Kurmin Wali, Ishaku Dan’azumi, thanked the state government and security agencies for their efforts, noting that the released victims included children, women, and adults. A security source also verified the release.
As of the time of reporting, the Kaduna State Government had not issued an official statement on the matter.
