Suspected bandits have abducted a Catholic priest, a pregnant woman and about 30 other residents following a midnight attack on Kutaho and Kugir communities in Aribi Ward, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The attack, which occurred around 2 a.m. on Monday, has forced residents to flee their homes amid fears of a possible return by the gunmen.

Confirming the incident, the Parish Priest of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Kutaho, Rev. Fr. Linus Matthew Bobai, said more than 90 per cent of residents have relocated to neighbouring villages for safety.

Fr. Bobai said the attackers had earlier issued threats and ransom demands to members of the community before carrying out the assault.

“Before the incident, they called one of my parishioners and demanded ₦10 million, threatening to kidnap him if he failed to comply,” he said. “They claimed our people are into irrigation farming and ginger cultivation, and that means money.”

He explained that despite warnings to residents to remain vigilant, the bandits returned as threatened and launched a coordinated attack. The priest noted that he was in Kaduna at the time, purchasing textbooks for St. Joseph School.

The incident has heightened tension in the area, with displaced residents seeking refuge in nearby communities.

Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement on the attack or the steps being taken to secure the affected communities.