Crime

Catholic Priest, Nine Others Abducted by Terrorists in Borno

Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists have abducted a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Daniel Afina, along with nine others during an ambush on the Gwoza-Limankara Road in Borno State. One person was killed during the attack.

According to sources in Maiduguri, Rev. Afina, who serves as the project coordinator of a Christian non-governmental organization, was returning from Mubi with two staff members when the terrorists ambushed their vehicle. The attackers killed one staff member on the spot while forcefully taking the priest and nine others captive. Some individuals managed to escape during the incident.

Family members of the priest have confirmed that the terrorists allowed Rev. Fr. Afina to speak with them briefly, confirming his abduction. However, there has been no further communication since then. The family also reported that the kidnappers have not yet made any ransom demands.

A senior official of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Borno State has verified both the kidnapping and the murder of one of the staff members during the attack.

This incident comes amid ongoing security challenges in the region, where terrorist groups continue to target civilians and religious figures.

The abduction highlights the persistent threat posed by terrorist organizations in Nigeria's northeastern region, particularly in Borno State, which has been a hotspot for insurgent activities for over a decade.

Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident or any rescue operations underway.

Stay connected with BenriNews for updates on this developing story.