From All Africa and Nigeria Info
The army said that it has rescued 31 worshippers taken hostage during an attack on a church in northwestern Kaduna state.
The assault in Ariko village targeted both a Catholic and an evangelical church during Easter services. Seven people were killed and several others were abducted. The military, however, said five victims were found dead at the scene. The attack took place despite the police chief ordering a “massive security deployment” including at places of worship during Easter.
The attack happened in Ariko village in Kachia Local Government Area, where gunmen stormed an ECWA church during service and took dozens of people into the surrounding bush. The armed group also attacked St. Augustine Catholic Church in the same community, killing seven people.
In a statement, the army said troops moved quickly after receiving a distress call and pursued the attackers with help from local residents.
“They advanced in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists and engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight,” the statement said.
