RismadarVoice Reporters, April 6, 2026
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has ordered the immediate deployment of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Shehu Umar Nadada, to Kaduna State following a deadly attack on Ariko Village near the Gurara Dam.
The attack occurred on April 5, 2026, when suspected armed bandits stormed the community during church services at ECWA and Catholic Churches. Witnesses said the gunmen opened fire on worshippers, leaving five people dead, abducting several others.
Police sources confirmed that about 14 residents were taken away by the attackers during the assault, which sent panic through the rural community.
In response to the incident, the IGP directed an urgent operational intervention, deploying DIG Nadada to Kaduna to assess the situation and coordinate security operations aimed at restoring calm and securing the release of those abducted.
Security operations involving the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, and the Department of State Services (DSS) were subsequently launched in the area.
According to police authorities, the joint team has so far rescued seven of the kidnapped victims during the ongoing operation. The rescued individuals were taken to Katari Hospital, where they are receiving medical attention and are reported to be in stable condition.
Security officials say efforts are continuing to locate and rescue the remaining victims while pursuing the attackers responsible for the violence.
The Inspector-General reaffirmed the commitment of the police and other security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice, ensure the safety of communities across the country.
He also called on residents to remain alert and cooperate with security personnel by providing credible information that could assist in ongoing operations.
