Bandits have launched another deadly assault in Kaduna State, killing three residents and abducting a Catholic priest alongside 10 others in Karku community, Kauru Local Government Area.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Saturday, with residents saying the gunmen stormed the village at night and operated for several hours before fleeing with their captives.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Kafanchan confirmed that one of those kidnapped is Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Karku. He was reportedly seized along with other residents during the raid.
In a statement, the Diocesan Chancellor, Very Reverend Father Jacob Shanet, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and called for prayers for the victims.
“With profound sadness, we announce the kidnapping of our priest, Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye, Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Karku, Kauru LGA of Kaduna State,” Shanet said.
He disclosed that the attackers forced their way into the priest’s residence at about 3:20 a.m., describing the assault as a coordinated invasion by heavily armed men.
According to him, the incident also claimed three lives. The deceased were identified as Mr. Jacob Dan’azumi, Mr. Maitala Kaura, and Alhaji Kusari.
“Fr. Nathaniel was kidnapped alongside ten other people at Karku. At the time of this report, three persons have been confirmed dead,” he added.
The diocese urged priests, church members and the public to pray for the safe return of the abducted victims and comfort for the bereaved families.
“The entire Diocese of Kafanchan entrusts them to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for their speedy and safe release,” Shanet said.
Reacting to the attack, Chairman of the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria, Reverend Joseph Hayab, described the situation as alarming, noting that kidnappings and violent attacks in the region continue to rise despite security efforts.
“This is a sad development. The rate of kidnapping is becoming unbearable. The abduction of priests and innocent citizens remains unabated,” he said.
Hayab, however, expressed hope that the victims would return safely and urged security agencies to intensify operations against criminal elements.
As of the time of filing this report, the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, had yet to respond to enquiries regarding the incident.
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