Nigerian Military Rescues 31 Hostages Following Easter Attacks in Kaduna

The Nigerian military has announced the rescue of 31 individuals who were abducted during the Easter holiday in the northwestern state of Kaduna. However, at least five people have been reported dead in the incident.

According to Caleb Bawa Maaji, local Catholic and Evangelical churches were targeted. The abduction occurred in Ariko village, approximately 100 kilometers north of Abuja. Previously, the police chief had ordered 'comprehensive security measures' at places of worship for the Easter holiday. 

The military stated that through a 'rapid response, the terrorist attack was thwarted and 31 people were rescued.' Troops engaged in a firefight with the attackers, forcing the kidnappers to release the hostages. While the military reported at least five deaths, Maaji indicated that seven people had lost their lives.

In January, more than 170 people were abducted in mass kidnappings across three churches in Kaduna. Of those, 80 managed to escape, and the remainder were released after three weeks of negotiations.

For years, criminal gangs known as 'bandits' have been attacking communities and carrying out kidnappings in several states across northwestern and central Nigeria. Although these bandits primarily commit violence for financial gain, they have also been known to collaborate with jihadist groups in the northeast. It remains unclear whether the term 'terrorist' used by the military refers to jihadists or bandits.

Meanwhile, reports have emerged that the Nigerian military killed 65 bandits in Zamfara state. This operation did not take place in the area where the abductions occurred, but the military has described it as a 'significant success.'

As violence escalates in Nigeria, former U.S. President Donald Trump has drawn attention to the 'massacre' of Christians in the country.