Exactly a year ago, the terrorists had derailed the train, setting off an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) to blow up a section of the track. They then opened fire on the coaches, and kidnapped scores of passengers from it.
Luggage, valuables and other belongings of some passengers who were on board the ill-fated Abuja-Kaduna train AK9, which was attacked by terrorists on March 28, 2022, remain unclaimed, the Kaduna State government has said.
Exactly a year ago, the terrorists had derailed the train, setting off an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) to blow up a section of the track. They then opened fire on the coaches, and kidnapped scores of passengers from it.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr Samuel Aruwan in a statement said the items were recovered from within and around the train during search operations after the attack.
The statement read, “In the heat of the confusion, a terrified passenger finally alerted the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs on the exact location of the train, which was traced to Kasarami-Audujongom general area of Chikun LGA.
“Immediately, Major General KI Mukhtar, the then GOC 1 Division and Brigadier General UT Upuene, then Garrison Commander moved with their brave troops to secure the train and rescue the remaining passengers. Subsequent developments confirmed that nine passengers were killed in the attack, with over 60 kidnapped and more than 20 injured.
“Passengers injured were successfully evacuated by the troops, staff of Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency and other humanitarian volunteers, along with the remains of the slain passengers.
“After the search and rescue, troops carefully secured passengers’ luggage and thereafter handed them over to the Kaduna State Government on 31st March 2022. Also supplied was a detailed inventory of over 100 items of luggage and several loose belongings carefully labelled. Records confirmed that nine victims had already collected their belongings directly from the 1 Division Headquarters.
“Consequently, the Kaduna State Government can now report that between 3rd April and 17th November 2022, 62 persons (victims of the attack or their relatives) came forward to claim 94 items of luggage containing a range of personal items. Other loose belongings identified and retrieved from the Kaduna State Government by their owners include certificates, documents, passports, car and house keys, cash, ATM cards, mobile phones, tablets, laptops and their accessories, books, perfumes, as well as clothing and jewellery items.
“As of the time of this update, 16 bags remain unclaimed, along with an assortment of loose belongings including prayer mats, books and clothing items. The Kaduna State Government will continue to maintain detailed records of all items collected, including the contact details of victims or their representatives.
“One year on, the Kaduna State Government again offers its heartfelt commiserations to all victims of the tragedy, and their families. The efforts of all security agencies in responding to the attack to secure the lives of many passengers are recognized and deeply appreciated. The window is still open for the collection of the remaining items at the Ministry.
“Finally, the military and other security agencies have done and achieved a lot in the campaign against terrorism in the State since this unfortunate incident. Some of these inroads will be highlighted in the 2022 Annual Security Report and the First Quarter Report for 2023, soon to be presented to the public. As this administration winds up, it will continue to support and partner with security agencies and critical stakeholders towards security and safety of the citizenry.”