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Bandits launched an attack on a church service in Bakinpah-Maro community, Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna, leaving at least three people dead and many others feared kidnapped.
The incident occurred on Sunday around 10 a.m. when the bandits, who arrived in large numbers, targeted both an ECWA and Catholic Church.
Former Chairman of Kajuru LGA, Cafra Caino, confirmed the incident, stating that 30 persons were kidnapped, including Pastor Bernard Gajera from one of the churches.
Caino said, “The terrorists attacked the churches during service, killing three people and abducting many others. The community is in shock, and we urge the authorities to take immediate action to rescue the kidnapped victims.”
Our correspondent reports that the attack comes after the Maro community raised funds to build a security post for law enforcement agencies, following repeated attacks that have prevented farmers from accessing their farmlands.
The kidnapping of Pastor Gajera and many others has sparked fears of a growing trend of targeting religious leaders and communities.
The incident has left the community in a state of fear, with many calling for increased security measures to protect lives and property.
A local resident said, “We urge the government to take decisive action to address the security challenges in our community. We cannot continue to live in fear of bandits and kidnappers.”
Another eyewitness, who crave for anonymity, described the attack as horrific.
“When the bandits arrived in large numbers, many worshippers fled the church,” the eyewitness said. “It was a horrendous sight. We were helpless as we watched the bandits wreak havoc.”
The eyewitness called on the government to intensify efforts to protect lives and property in the southern part of the state.
“We can only call on both the state and federal governments, despite their efforts, to continue to try harder for the safety of lives and property in southern part of the state,” the eyewitness said.
As of the time of filing this report, the police are yet to comment on the incident. However, the attack has raised concerns about the escalating insecurity in the region.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, on Monday, urged troops on the front line across the country to redouble their efforts in defending the nation.
He also urged them to continue to exhibit the highest standard of discipline and loyalty to the country while going about their duties.
This was contained in a statement by the Director, Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau.
Gusau said, “Musa called on our gallant troops to redouble their efforts in defending our motherland and to also continue to uphold the highest standards of discipline, loyalty and integrity that are hallmarks of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“He also urged them to continue to work in unity with other security agencies in order to defeat the forces of evil and to restore peace and stability across our nation. He further called on all Nigerians to embrace the virtues of tolerance, mutual understanding, and respect for constitutional authority.”
According to the statement, the CDS also saluted members of the Armed Forces who had demonstrated an unwavering commitment and valour in the face of various security challenges confronting our dear country.
“Particularly, the courage and bravery of the troops of Operation Fansan Yamma in Zamfara State for bringing down a notorious bandit leader, Haliru Buzu, and others. The CDS also extended his appreciation to the troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri for their noble role in rescuing thousands of flood victims during the recent devastating flood in Maiduguri.”
