The Nigerian military has rescued 31 worshippers abducted by terrorists during an Easter church service in Kaduna state, the army said Sunday.
The attack happened in Ariko village in Kachia Local Government Area, where gunmen stormed an ECWA church during service and took dozens of people into the surrounding bush.
The armed group also attacked St. Augustine Catholic Church in the same community, killing seven people.
In a statement, the army said troops moved quickly after receiving a distress call and pursued the attackers with help from local residents.
“They advanced in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists and engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight,” the statement said.
The military said its forces overpowered the attackers and successfully freed all 31 abducted victims.
The rescued worshippers are believed to be safe, though officials did not give details about injuries.
The incident is the latest in a series of attacks on communities and places of worship in northern Nigeria, where armed groups often target civilians for kidnapping and ransom.
Kaduna state has seen repeated violence in recent months.
In January, more than 150 worshippers were abducted in separate church attacks, highlighting the scale of insecurity in the region.
Authorities say military operations are ongoing to track down the attackers and prevent further incidents.
Residents have also been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
Despite the successful rescue, the attack has renewed concerns about safety during religious gatherings, especially in rural areas with limited security presence.
