The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed that the reported abduction at Kurmin Wali, a remote community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, did occur, dispelling earlier conflicting accounts that had caused public anxiety.
In a statement issued on Tuesday night and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police explained that its initial reaction was not a denial of the incident but a cautious response pending verification of facts from the field.
“The Force understands the fear and anxiety such reports cause to families, residents, and the general public, and treats the safety of every citizen as a matter of utmost priority,” Hundeyin said.
He disclosed that upon receiving the report, the Kaduna State Security Council was convened by the governor at the Government House in Kaduna. During the meeting, some individuals from the affected local government area disputed the report—describing it as false—despite it having earlier been confirmed by the Police. This, he said, created uncertainty and reinforced the need for careful verification by security agencies before issuing definitive public statements.
According to Hundeyin, comments made by the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, during a media interaction were aimed at preventing unnecessary panic while facts were being confirmed. He stressed that the remarks, which were widely misinterpreted, were not intended to deny the incident but to allow time for confirmation of details, including the identities and number of those affected.
“Subsequent verification from operational units and intelligence sources has confirmed that the incident did occur,” the statement said, adding that the Police had since activated coordinated security operations in collaboration with other agencies to locate and safely rescue the victims and restore calm to the area.
Hundeyin further revealed that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the full deployment of critical operational and intelligence assets to Kajuru and surrounding communities. These include the deployment of tactical units, intensified patrols, targeted search-and-rescue operations, and other proactive measures to protect lives and property.
The Police appealed to the public and the media to remain patient and cooperative, urging them to rely on official police communications for verified information and to avoid speculation or sensational reporting that could compromise ongoing operations or heighten public fear.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of all citizens and promised to provide updates as the situation develops.
