Suspected terrorists launched a deadly attack on the Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State in the early hours of Easter Sunday, killing at least seven worshippers and abducting several others. The assailants reportedly targeted two churches—First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church—where they opened fire on congregants, causing panic and chaos across the community.
The councillor representing Awon Ward, Mark Bawa, confirmed the incident, stating that casualty figures remain uncertain, with reports ranging between seven and eight deaths. He attributed the scale of the attack to poor telecommunications in the area, which may have delayed emergency response. According to residents, the attackers operated for an extended period without resistance, taking multiple victims into the surrounding bush.
This incident comes barely two months after a similar attack in Kurmin Wali, also in Kachia LGA, where many worshippers were abducted during a church gathering. The recurring violence has intensified concerns over the persistent insecurity in Southern Kaduna, particularly during religious events. The Kaduna State Police Command, through its spokesperson DSP Mansir Hassan, said further details on the attack would be provided as investigations continue.
