A bandit attack in Bakinpah-Maro, Kaduna State, led to the deaths of three worshippers and the kidnapping of 31 others, including a pastor. The assailants targeted local churches during Sunday services, raising concerns over escalating violence against religious institutions in the region.
In a tragic incident on September 15, 2024, at least three Christian worshippers lost their lives during an attack by armed bandits in Bakinpah-Maro, located in the Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The attackers targeted the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) and Catholic churches while congregants were engaged in Sunday services.
The assault, which occurred around 10 AM, was confirmed by Cafra Caino, a former chairman of the Kajuru Local Government Area. He reported that the bandits arrived in large numbers and began firing indiscriminately at the churches, causing chaos among the worshippers. In addition to the fatalities, around 31 individuals, including Pastor Bernard Gajera, were kidnapped during the attack.
Efforts to contact the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Munir Hassan, for further information were unsuccessful. This incident marks a significant escalation in violence targeting religious institutions in Kaduna State, raising serious concerns about the safety of citizens, especially during worship hours. Community leaders and residents have expressed outrage over the attacks, urging authorities to take immediate action to enhance security in the region and protect the populace from further assaults.
