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Armed Bandits Kidnap Catholic Priest and Villagers in Kaduna, Kill Three
In a harrowing early morning assault on the Karku community within Kaduna State’s Kauru Local Government Area, suspected bandits abducted Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye, the parish priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, along with ten other villagers. The violent raid also resulted in the deaths of three residents.
Details of the Attack
The incident occurred around 3:20 a.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026, when heavily armed assailants stormed the community, indiscriminately firing shots before forcibly taking their victims. Eyewitnesses described the attackers as well-armed and ruthless, leaving the area in a state of panic and despair.
Community and Church Response
Jacob Shanet, Chancellor of the Catholic Archdiocese of Kafanchan, confirmed the abduction in an official statement, urging prayers from Christians and all people of goodwill for the safe return of the kidnapped individuals. He expressed deep sorrow over the incident, emphasizing the trauma inflicted on the community.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the kidnapping of our beloved priest, Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye, alongside ten other residents of Karku,” Shanet stated. “This tragic event has also claimed the lives of three innocent people.”
Victims and Casualties
The three individuals who lost their lives during the attack have been identified as Jacob Dan’azumi, Maitala Kaura, and Alhaji Kusari. The bandits reportedly raided the priest’s residence and neighboring homes, leaving the community shaken and fearful for their safety.
Calls for Solidarity and Prayer
The diocese has called on all priests, parishioners, and compassionate individuals to unite in prayer for the release of the abducted victims and for the eternal rest of those who were killed. The incident highlights the growing insecurity challenges faced by religious leaders and rural communities in the region.
Security Efforts and Ongoing Operations
Reacting to the attack, Rev. Joseph Hayab, Chairman of the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria, lamented the escalating frequency of kidnappings targeting clergy and civilians, describing the situation as increasingly intolerable despite ongoing countermeasures.
Security officials from the Kaduna State Police Command reported that joint military and police units have engaged the bandits in firefights around the Kauru area. Authorities believe the perpetrators remain in the vicinity and are optimistic about their imminent capture.
“The bandits have not yet left the area. With continued efforts and divine assistance, we are hopeful they will be brought to justice,” a police source revealed.
Context and Broader Implications
This attack is part of a disturbing trend of violent kidnappings and killings in Kaduna State and the broader northern region of Nigeria, where banditry has surged in recent years. According to the Nigerian Security Tracker, over 1,200 abductions were recorded in Kaduna State alone in 2025, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced security and community protection measures.
Similar incidents have targeted religious figures and rural populations, exacerbating tensions and disrupting social cohesion. The international community and local authorities continue to seek sustainable solutions to curb this wave of violence.
