One year after the Abuja‑Kaduna train attack, the Kaduna State Government announced on Tuesday that 16 bags belonging to victims of the AK‑9 passenger train remain unclaimed. On 28 March 2022, terrorists planted explosive devices along the rail track. When the Abuja‑Kaduna bound AK‑9 train approached, the device detonated, derailing the train. The blast killed eight passengers, and scores were kidnapped by the attackers.
State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs Samuel Aruwan, marking the anniversary, said that between April and November 2022, 62 persons—victims of the attack or their relatives—came forward to claim 94 items of luggage containing personal effects. Retrieved items included certificates, documents, passports, car and house keys, cash, ATM cards, mobile phones, tablets, laptops and accessories, books, perfumes, clothing, and jewellery. However, as of the latest update, 16 bags and assorted loose belongings such as prayer mats, books, and clothing remain unclaimed. The government will continue to keep detailed records of all collected items and the contact details of victims or their representatives, and the “window is still open for the collection of the remaining items at the ministry.”
Aruwan praised the gallantry of the security forces and expressed heartfelt sympathy to the victims and their families. He recounted that at around 7 p.m. on 28 March 2022, terrorists derailed the Kaduna‑bound train by setting off an improvised explosive device on the track, then opened fire on the coaches and kidnapped many passengers. A terrified passenger alerted the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs to the train’s location in the Kasarami‑Audujongom area of Chikun LGA. Major General KI Mukhtar, then GOC 1 Division, and Brigadier General UT Upuene, then Garrison Commander, promptly led troops to secure the train and rescue the remaining passengers.
The commissioner confirmed that nine passengers were killed, over 60 were kidnapped, and more than 20 were injured. Injured passengers were evacuated by troops, the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, and humanitarian volunteers. After the rescue operation, troops secured the passengers’ luggage and handed it over to the Kaduna State Government on 31 March 2022. A detailed inventory of over 100 luggage items and several lost belongings was compiled, and records show that nine victims have already collected their belongings directly from the 1 Division Headquarters.
Aruwan reiterated that the Kaduna State Government will maintain detailed records of all items and the contact information 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 and securing the lives of many passengers are recognized and deeply appreciated,” he said. He assured that close and improved collaboration with all security agencies will be sustained for prompt response and effective counter‑terrorism efforts in the state.
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