In a dramatic military operation, Nigerian soldiers have rescued 31 civilians who were taken hostage following a violent attack on a church during Easter celebrations in Kaduna state.
Gunmen targeted worshippers at a church in Ariko on Sunday morning, killing five people according to official army statements, though local church officials initially reported seven fatalities. The attackers fled after engaging in what the military described as a "fierce firefight" with responding troops, leaving behind both the hostages and the bodies of their victims.
"The fleeing terrorists suffered significant casualties, as evidenced by blood trails along their escape routes," stated an army release, indicating that additional troops have been deployed to hunt down the remaining insurgents and reinforce security in the region.
This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in northern Nigeria, where attacks and kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common. The country faces threats from various armed groups, including jihadist organizations and local criminal gangs known as bandits.
While the army claims to have responded swiftly to Sunday's attack, some local media reports suggest residents witnessed the gunmen operating for an extended period without encountering resistance from security forces.
The military has called on residents to share information that could assist operations against groups contributing to insecurity across Nigeria. This appeal comes as the country continues to grapple with complex security threats that have affected communities of various faiths and backgrounds.