Gunmen believed to be bandits have abducted a Catholic priest along with several other persons and killed three security operatives during a failed rescue operation in Ningi village, located in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Kafanchan confirmed that the victim is Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, who serves as the parish priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in the Karku community.
While the Kaduna State Police Command has not yet issued an official statement on the incident, residents disclosed that the attack took place in the early hours of Saturday, around 3:20 a.m., when armed assailants invaded the priest’s residence.
According to church officials, the attackers abducted Father Asuwaye alongside several other individuals during the raid.
During subsequent efforts to rescue the victims, tragedy struck as three security operatives deployed to the area were ambushed by the bandits and killed.
Confirming the development in a statement, the Diocesan Chancellor, Very Reverend Father Jacob Shanet, conveyed profound grief over the incident, describing it as a painful episode for both the church and the affected community. He also verified the loss of the three security personnel.
In response, security agencies have commenced an intensive manhunt for the perpetrators.
Sources within the Kaduna State Police Command revealed that operatives are currently sweeping parts of the Kauru axis in a bid to rescue those abducted and track down the attackers responsible for the violence.
What you should know
The abduction of Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye in Kaduna highlights the worsening security situation in parts of the state, where bandit attacks and kidnappings remain frequent.
The incident also underscores the risks faced by security operatives, as three officers lost their lives during rescue efforts. While police authorities are yet to formally confirm the attack, security forces have launched operations across Kauru Local Government Area to rescue the victims.
The church has expressed deep sorrow, reflecting growing concerns over clergy safety and persistent insecurity affecting rural communities.
