…Directs “full deployment of critical intelligence, operation.”
by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Operational Unit of the Nigeria Police, Abuja Headquarters, has later confirmed the abduction of church worshippers in Kurmin Wali in Kajuru LGAs of Kaduna State.
The confirmation came from a statement issued and signed by Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, dated 20 January 2026.
According to the statement, comments earlier made by the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, during a media interaction were intended to prevent unnecessary panic, while facts were being confirmed.
“Those remarks, which have since been widely misinterpreted, 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,” it stated.
It added that “Subsequent verification from operational units and intelligence sources has confirmed that the incident did occur.
“The Nigeria Police Force, therefore, activated coordinated security operations, working closely with other security agencies, with a clear focus on locating and safely rescuing the victims and restoring calm to the area.
“The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the full deployment of critical operational and intelligence assets to Kajuru and surrounding communities.
“These efforts include deployment of tactical units as well as intensified patrols already in place, targeted search-and-rescue operations, and proactive measures to protect lives and property,” it stated.
The Nigeria Police Force appealed to members of the public and the media for patience and cooperation, urging public to be encouraged to rely on official police communications for verified information and to avoid speculation or sensational reporting that could jeopardize ongoing operations or heighten public anxiety.
It added that the Force remained fully committed to the safety of all citizens and will continue to provide updates as developments unfold.
Police earlier stated that it acknowledged the deep concern generated by reports of an abduction incident at Kurmin Wali, a remote community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
“The Force understands the fear and anxiety such reports caused to families, residents, and the general public, and treats the safety of every citizen as a matter of utmost priority.
“Upon receiving the report, the Kaduna State Security Council was convened by the Governor. During the meeting at the Government House, Kaduna, some individuals from the affected local government area disputed the report, which had earlier been confirmed by the Police, and described it as false.
“This created uncertainty and reinforced the need for caution and thorough verification by the Police and other security agencies before making conclusive public statements on such a sensitive matter.
“In this context, comments made by the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, during a media interaction were intended to prevent unnecessary panic, while facts were being confirmed.
“Those remarks, which have since been widely misinterpreted, 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,” it explained.