JUST IN: Bandits attack churches in Kaduna, kill seven during Easter service

Bandits have attacked Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, targeting two churches during Easter celebrations and killing at least seven worshippers.

The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, also led to the abduction of several residents.

Mark Bawa, councillor representing Awon ward where Ariko district is located, confirmed the incident in a phone interview.

Bawa said the attackers targeted First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church in the community.

The councillor stated: “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 the attackers stormed the community in large numbers and began shooting sporadically at worshippers.

“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,” he said.

He added that poor telecommunications coverage in the area may have contributed to the delay in security response.

Residents said the assailants operated for a prolonged period without resistance, raising concerns about the vulnerability of rural communities in the state.

The latest attack comes about two months after a similar incident in Kurmin Wali community, also in Kachia LGA, where worshippers were abducted during a church gathering in February.

The incident had triggered renewed calls for improved security presence across communities in southern Kaduna.