By JKNewsMedia
ARIKO, KADUNA State: Easter celebrations turned tragic in Ariko community, located in Kachia Local Government Area, after suspected terrorists launched a coordinated हमला on two churches during Sunday service, killing at least seven worshippers and abducting several others.
JKNewsMedia.com reports that the attack, which targeted congregants at the First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, marks the second such incident in the area within two months, deepening fears over the safety of rural communities during religious gatherings.
Hon. Mark Bawa, councillor representing Awon ward where Ariko district falls, confirmed the нападение in a telephone interview with The PUNCH, stating that casualty figures remain uncertain.
“I am currently on my way to the community to ascertain the exact number of casualties. Some sources said seven persons were killed, while others claimed eight. I will provide an update once details are confirmed,” Bawa said.
Gunmen Strike During Worship
According to eyewitness accounts relayed by community leaders, the attackers arrived in large numbers, surrounding the worship centres before opening fire indiscriminately.
“The attackers came in large numbers. They surrounded the area and began shooting sporadically at worshippers. Several people were killed, and many others were taken away into the bush,” Bawa added.
Residents reported that the assailants operated for an extended period without resistance, raising serious concerns about delayed security response and the vulnerability of remote settlements.
Communication Gaps Blamed
Bawa pointed to poor telecommunications coverage in the area as a possible factor that allowed the нападение to unfold unchecked.
The lack of immediate communication, he suggested, may have hindered timely intervention by security forces.
Pattern of Attacks in Southern Kaduna
The latest violence follows a similar February incident in Kurmin Wali community, also within Kachia Local Government Area, where scores of worshippers were abducted during a church gathering.
Observers say the повторяющиеся attacks highlight ongoing security challenges across Southern Kaduna, particularly during religious observances and festive periods when communities gather in large numbers.
JKNewsMedia.com reports that the Kaduna State Police Command has yet to release a comprehensive account of the incident.
Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent Mansir Hassan, said further details would be made available as investigations progress.
However, the attack has sparked outrage among residents and civil society groups, with renewed calls for increased security deployment across vulnerable rural communities in Southern Kaduna.
Local leaders warn that without urgent intervention such incidents could continue to undermine public safety and religious freedom in the region.
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