Troops have successfully foiled a terrorist attack leading to the rescue of 31 civilians abducted during an Easter church service in Ariko Village in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The swift response followed a distress call reporting the abduction of worshippers during an Easter service at an ECWA Church in Ariko Village.
In a statement issued Sunday, the troops, on receipt of the information, promptly mobilised to the scene.
It added that with the support and guidance of members of the Ariko community, they advanced in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists and engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight, overwhelming them with superior firepower. It said pressure mounted by the advancing troops forced the terrorists to abandon 31 hostages, including one injured victim who is currently receiving medical attention.
Regrettably, the remains of five victims already killed by the terrorists were also recovered at the scene.
The statement added that the fleeing terrorists are believed to have sustained significant casualties, as evidenced by blood trails along their escape routes.
However, troops have since intensified pursuit operations to track the fleeing elements to their enclaves, with ongoing efforts aimed at rescuing any remaining captives and ensuring the perpetrators are brought to justice.