By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Nigerian Army have foiled a terrorist attack and rescued 31 civilians who were abducted during an Easter church service in Ariko Village, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, following a swift and coordinated response to a distress call from the community.
The incident occurred when terrorists stormed an Easter service at an Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) Church in Ariko Village and abducted several worshippers. Upon receiving the distress call, troops promptly mobilised and moved to the area to intercept the attackers.
With support and guidance from members of the Ariko community, the troops advanced in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists and engaged them in a fierce firefight. The criminals were eventually overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the troops.
The sustained pressure mounted by the advancing soldiers forced the terrorists to abandon 31 hostages during the encounter. Among those rescued was one injured victim who is currently receiving medical attention.
However, the attack left a tragic toll, as troops recovered the remains of five victims who had already been killed by the terrorists before the rescue operation.
Military sources indicated that the fleeing terrorists are believed to have sustained significant casualties during the exchange of fire, as blood trails were discovered along their escape routes.
Following the successful rescue operation, troops have intensified pursuit efforts to track the fleeing terrorists to their enclaves. The ongoing operations are aimed at rescuing any remaining captives and ensuring that the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice.
To consolidate the gains recorded in the operation, additional troops have been deployed to the area to reinforce security presence, sustain ongoing offensive operations, and prevent further threats to lives and property within the community and surrounding areas.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the protection of citizens and the defence of Nigeria’s territorial integrity, noting that it will continue to work closely with other security agencies and local stakeholders to neutralise threats to national security.
Members of the public were also encouraged to continue supporting the military and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information, stressing that collective vigilance remains vital to achieving lasting peace and stability across affected communities.
