The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the abduction of Christian worshippers in Kurmi Wali community of Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, days after initial public statements created uncertainty over the incident.
The confirmation came on Tuesday following what the police described as further intelligence verification and field reports, prompting the deployment of additional security assets to the area.
In a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the police said the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had ordered the immediate deployment of tactical and intelligence units to Kajuru and neighbouring communities to support rescue operations and strengthen security.
Hundeyin said intensified patrols and targeted search-and-rescue efforts were already underway, adding that protecting lives and restoring calm remained the priority of the Force.
He explained that confusion surrounding the incident stemmed from conflicting accounts received during a Kaduna State Security Council meeting convened by Governor Uba Sani after reports of the abduction surfaced.
According to the police, some individuals from the affected local government area disputed the report at the meeting, describing it as false, thereby necessitating caution and further verification before issuing definitive public statements.
“This situation reinforced the need for thorough confirmation before making conclusive announcements on a sensitive security matter,” the statement said.
The police clarified that remarks earlier attributed to the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, were not a denial of the incident but a temporary response aimed at preventing public panic while details such as the number and identities of those affected were being confirmed.
“Subsequent verification from operational units and intelligence sources has now confirmed that the incident did occur,” Hundeyin said.
Following the confirmation, the police said coordinated security operations involving other agencies were activated, with a focus on locating and safely rescuing the victims.
The Force appealed to the public and the media to rely on official communications for verified information and to avoid speculation that could disrupt ongoing operations or heighten anxiety.
The police assured Nigerians of their continued commitment to the safety of all citizens and pledged to provide updates as investigations and rescue efforts progress.
Police Reverse Position, Confirm Abduction of Worshippers in Kaduna Community
