Police Rescue Seven Kidnap Victims in Kaduna Attack

On April 5, 2026, an armed bandit attack occurred at the ECWA Catholic Church in Ariko Community, Kaduna State, resulting in the deaths of five individuals and the abduction of approximately fourteen others. In response, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Rilwan Disu ordered immediate operational intervention led by Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Shehu Umar Nadada.

The operation, which involved collaboration with the Nigerian Army, successfully rescued seven of the kidnapped victims, who have since been taken to Katari Hospital for medical care and are reported to be in stable condition. DCP Anthoni Placid confirmed the ongoing security operations aimed at securing the release of the remaining victims and urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information.

This incident marks a continuation of violent attacks on places of worship in the region, following a similar incident in February 2026.