The Nigerian Army has announced that its troops successfully thwarted a terrorist attack and rescued 31 civilians abducted during an Easter church service in Ariko village, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
In a statement released on Sunday, the army said it received a distress call reporting that worshippers at an ECWA Church in the community had been taken by armed attackers during the service.
“The troops, on receipt of the information, promptly mobilised to the scene. With the support and guidance of members of the Ariko community, they advanced in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists and engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight, overwhelming them with superior firepower,” the statement reads.
According to the army, the pressure from the advancing troops forced the attackers to abandon their captives.
“The pressure mounted by the advancing troops forced the terrorists to abandon 31 hostages, including one injured victim who is currently receiving medical attention.”
Mark Bawa, councillor representing Awon ward in Ariko district, also confirmed the incident, stating that the attackers stormed the village in large numbers and operated for about an hour before escaping into nearby bushes with some victims.
The army further disclosed that five people had already been killed by the attackers before they fled the scene.
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“The fleeing terrorists are believed to have sustained significant casualties, as evidenced by blood trails along their escape routes,” the statement added.
It also noted that troops have intensified efforts to track down the fleeing suspects and rescue any remaining captives.
“Troops have since intensified pursuit operations to track the fleeing elements to their enclaves, with ongoing efforts aimed at rescuing any remaining captives and ensuring the perpetrators are brought to justice.
“To consolidate the gains recorded, additional troops have been deployed to the area to reinforce ongoing operations, enhance security presence, and prevent further threats to lives and property.”