Terrorists Abduct Catholic Priest and 10 Others, Kill Three in Fresh Attack in Kaduna State

Suspected terrorists abducted a Catholic priest and 10 other persons while killing three people in a fresh attack on the Karku community in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, February 7, 2026, further highlighting the persistent insecurity challenges in Nigeria’s North-West region.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Kafanchan confirmed the abduction of Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, the parish priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Karku. In a statement issued by the Diocesan Chancellor, Very Reverend Father Jacob Shanet, the Church expressed “profound sadness” over the invasion.

“Fr. Nathaniel was kidnapped alongside 10 other people at Karku… The incident took place at about 3:20 a.m. (WAT) at the priest’s residence.” — Very Reverend Father Jacob Shanet

Details of the Attack

The terrorists reportedly invaded the community under the cover of darkness, targeting the priest’s residence and surrounding homes. While 11 people were forcibly taken into the forest, three residents were killed during the assault.

Sources within the Kaduna State Police Command indicate that security operatives have launched a manhunt for the assailants in the Kauru axis. As of Saturday evening, no group has claimed responsibility, though the attack aligns with the established pattern of banditry and “kidnap-for-ransom” schemes prevalent in the area.

Related Context: A Pattern of Violence

This incident follows months of heightened volatility in Kaduna and neighboring states. Armed groups have increasingly targeted:

• Religious Leaders: Clergy members are frequently abducted for high-value ransom demands.

  Rural Communities: Vulnerable villages in Kauru and neighboring LGAs often face nighttime raids and livestock rustling.

• Worshippers: Similar attacks have recently occurred during church services and community gatherings.

The Catholic Church in Nigeria has repeatedly petitioned the federal government for enhanced military presence and more robust protection for clergy and vulnerable rural populations. While the Kaduna State Government has attempted to address socio-economic neglect through infrastructure projects in Kauru, security remains the most critical hurdle for local residents.