Bandits k!ll three, abduct Catholic priest and 10 others in Kaduna

Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church,

Bandits Kill Three, Abduct Catholic Priest and 10 Others in Kaduna

Kaduna State has once again been thrust into the spotlight of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis following a violent attack by armed bandits. The assault, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, February 7, 2026, left three people dead and resulted in the abduction of a Catholic priest along with ten other residents. The incident has sparked outrage and renewed calls for urgent government action to address the escalating wave of violence in the region.

The Incident

The attack took place around 3:20 a.m. in Karku village, located in Kauru Local Government Area of Southern Kaduna. Witnesses reported that the bandits stormed the community, shooting indiscriminately and causing widespread panic. Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, was among those abducted. Alongside him, ten other villagers were taken away by the assailants. The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan confirmed the abduction in a statement, expressing deep sorrow and urging prayers for the safe return of the victims.

Casualties

The attack claimed the lives of three individuals. According to police sources, the deceased included two soldiers and a police officer who engaged the bandits in a gun battle. Community leaders, however, identified the victims as Mr. Jacob Dan’azumi, Mr. Maitala Kaura, and Alhaji Kusari, suggesting discrepancies in official and local accounts. Regardless of the identities, the loss of life underscores the deadly nature of the assault and the vulnerability of communities in Southern Kaduna.

Security Response

Security agents reportedly exchanged gunfire with the attackers, managing to kill some of them. Despite this, the bandits succeeded in abducting multiple victims and retreating into the bush. The incident highlights the challenges faced by security forces in combating well-armed groups that continue to terrorize rural communities. The attack came just days after security forces rescued 166 worshippers abducted from two churches in separate incidents, underscoring the persistence of insecurity in the region.

Community Impact

The residents of Karku village have been left traumatized by the violence. Families mourn the loss of loved ones while grappling with the uncertainty surrounding the fate of those abducted. The Catholic Church has called for prayers and solidarity, while community leaders have appealed for stronger government intervention to prevent further tragedies. The attack has deepened fears among villagers who already live under the constant threat of banditry and kidnapping.

Broader Implications

This incident is part of a larger pattern of insecurity in Kaduna and across Nigeria’s northern states. Banditry, kidnappings, and violent raids have become increasingly frequent, undermining public confidence in the government’s ability to protect its citizens. The abduction of a Catholic priest adds a symbolic dimension to the crisis, as religious leaders are often seen as pillars of community stability. The attack raises urgent questions about the adequacy of Nigeria’s security architecture and the need for comprehensive reforms to address the root causes of violence.

Let’s Take A Break

The killing of three individuals and the abduction of a Catholic priest along with ten others in Kaduna is a tragic reminder of the escalating insecurity plaguing Nigeria. As communities mourn and pray for the safe return of the abducted, the incident underscores the urgent need for decisive government action, enhanced security measures, and community resilience. Without such interventions, the cycle of violence and fear will continue to devastate families and erode the social fabric of vulnerable regions.