Ekiti police rescue 14 worshippers after 67 days

Fourteen worshippers abducted more than two months ago from a church in Ekiti State have been rescued by a joint security operation, police announced on Saturday. The victims, who were kidnapped during an attack on a Christ Apostolic Church crusade in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area, are now receiving medical care.

The rescue operation concluded on Friday, July 3, following what police described as sustained intelligence-led efforts involving the police, military, Amotekun Corps, local hunters, and the state government. Authorities confirmed the rescued victims have been taken to a hospital for examination and treatment.

The worshippers were abducted on Tuesday, April 28, when gunmen invaded an open-air crusade. During that attack, the officiating pastor was killed and 15 worshippers were taken. One of those abductees died while in captivity, according to reports. The remaining survivors, who include women, children, and elderly individuals, are said to be in critical physical and emotional condition following their ordeal.

The kidnappers had initially demanded a ransom of one billion naira, later reducing it to 50 million. The community reportedly raised and paid 10.5...