The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has confirmed the abduction of over 100 Christian worshippers in Kurmin Wali, a remote community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, reversing earlier remarks that had cast doubt on the incident.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday by Force PRO, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police said it was aware of the “deep concern generated by reports of an abduction incident at Kurmin Wali,” and acknowledged the fear such reports had caused residents and the wider public.

The statement explained that initial uncertainty followed a meeting of the Kaduna State Security Council, convened by the governor, Uba Sani, where “some individuals from the affected local government area disputed the report, which had earlier been confirmed by the Police, and described it as false.”

According to the Force, comments made earlier by the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, were misunderstood.

It said the remarks “were not a denial of the incident but a measured response pending confirmation of details from the field, including the identities and number of those affected.”

The statement added that subsequent checks by operational units and intelligence sources have now confirmed that the incident did occur.

Following the confirmation, the Police said coordinated security operations had been activated in collaboration with other agencies, with efforts focused on rescuing the victims and restoring calm.

The statement said the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had ordered the deployment of “critical operational and intelligence assets to Kajuru and surrounding communities,” including tactical units, intensified patrols and targeted search-and-rescue operations.

The statement also appealed to the public and the media to exercise restraint, urging them to rely on official communications for verified information and to avoid speculation that could undermine ongoing operations.

“The Force remains fully committed to the safety of all citizens and will continue to provide updates as developments unfold,” the statement said. (Nigerian Tribune)

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