Worshippers abducted from churches in Kurmin Wali town, along the Kufana axis of Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, have regained their freedom weeks after the attack.
A community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the victims were released in the early hours of the day following unusual nighttime movements around the Maro forest.
According to the source, heavy-duty vehicles were sighted entering the forest between 11 p.m. and midnight and later emerged between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. with the abducted worshippers.
“We were alerted that large vehicles moved into the forest late at night. A few hours later, they returned with the victims from the Maro axis. We do not know who facilitated the release or the terms involved. While the release has been confirmed, we cannot ascertain if everyone was freed,” the source said.
It remains unclear whether any ransom was paid or if the 17 motorcycles reportedly demanded by the abductors were handed over.
No fewer than 177 worshippers were abducted during the January 18, 2026, attack. However, about 80 victims—mostly children—escaped amid the chaos and sought refuge in nearby forest settlements.
