The military have been accused by residents of Kurmin Wali community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State of failing to make a serious effort to rescue 166 worshippers abducted from three churche.
According to residents, troops arrived days after the attack but withdrew after a brief forest pursuit, focusing instead on highway patrols. They claimed the kidnappers moved freely through known forest routes without resistance.
Residents also complained about the absence of aerial surveillance, such as helicopters, arguing that bandits operate mainly inside forests, not on highways. Some said escaped victims were asked to guide soldiers, but the operation was abandoned midway.
The prolonged captivity has left the community in fear and displacement. Kurmin Wali is now largely deserted, with most women and children fleeing to safer areas. Economic activities have collapsed, farms are abandoned despite the farming season, and neighbouring villages are also affected. Residents warned of possible food shortages and worsening humanitarian conditions if insecurity continues.
In response, the Defence Headquarters denied claims of inaction, insisting that intelligence-driven operations are ongoing to rescue the victims safely. Military officials said any perceived restraint was deliberate to avoid harming hostages. Meanwhile, Middle Belt and Southern Kaduna leaders have called for decisive action, stressing that without real security in forests and communities, displaced residents will not return.
