Armed group kidnaps 60 worshippers during Friday prayers in Nigeria

Dozens of worshippers were abducted during Friday prayers by unknown armed groups at a mosque in Nigeria's central Niger state. Police confirmed the attack occurred in Dekara village, Borgu Local Government Area, where assailants surrounded the Kpenya Mosque around 2 p.m. local time.

Witnesses reported that the attackers, after surrounding the mosque, forced the congregants who were in the middle of their prayers into a nearby forest. The Chairman of the Borgu Local Government Council, Abdullahi Mohammed Nasir, stated that at least 60 people were kidnapped, with some sustaining gunshot wounds while attempting to escape. Local youth leader Zubairu Umar Talba confirmed his 85-year-old father was among those taken.

Estimates from residents suggest the total number of abducted individuals could range from 60 to 80. Security forces and the military have launched a rescue operation, but the efforts are hampered by challenging terrain, damaged roads, and a crucial connecting bridge to the area being out of commission.

Authorities have confirmed that no fatalities occurred during the incident, and no group has yet claimed responsibility. Mass kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common in Nigeria's northwestern and central regions, with criminal armed groups frequently targeting settlements, schools, and major transportation routes. Prior to the mosque attack, the groups reportedly attacked the villages of Gidan-Zana and Dekara.

“

The evil people came, surrounded the mosque, and took them away