By SUNTV Global Channel
Kaduna | February 7, 2026
Gunmen suspected to be bandits have abducted a Catholic priest and several residents while killing three security operatives during a violent attack on Ningi village in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Kafanchan confirmed that the abducted cleric is Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, the Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Karku.
According to local sources, the attack occurred in the early hours of Saturday at about 3:20 a.m., when heavily armed assailants stormed the priest’s residence and surrounding homes, whisking him away alongside several other villagers.
Although the Kaduna State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement on the incident, church authorities confirmed the abduction and expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in the area.
In a statement, the Diocesan Chancellor, Very Reverend Father Jacob Shanet, described the incident as a painful and tragic moment for the church and the local community. He also confirmed that three security operatives were killed after they were ambushed by the bandits during rescue operations.
“The church is deeply saddened by this development and prays for the safe release of Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye and all others abducted,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, security agencies have launched a coordinated manhunt for the attackers. Sources within the Kaduna State Police Command disclosed that combined security teams are currently combing forests and surrounding communities in Kauru axis in a bid to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The latest attack adds to growing concerns over escalating banditry and insecurity in Southern Kaduna, where residents continue to call for stronger security measures and sustained government intervention.
