Bandits Kidnap 2 Catholic Priests in Kaduna

Gunmen suspected to be bandits have again kidnapped two Catholic priests, Reverend Father John Cheitnum and Reverend Father Donatus Cleopas in Kaduna State.

It was gathered that the two priests were kidnapped on there way to a function in Yadin Gura, Lere Local Government, Kaduna State.

In a statement on Friday night, signed by the Chancellor of Kafanchan Catholic Diocese, Reverend Father Emmanuel Okolo, he said Reverend Father Cheitnum is the Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in Jema’a Local Government Area of the State.

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The Chancellor said, “It is with great pain that we announce to you the kidnapping of two of our Priests; Rev. Frs. John Mark Cheitnum and Donatus Cleopas.

“The sad event of their abduction occurred around 5:45pm of July 15, 2022, shortly after the two priests, who were on their way to a function at a different parish in the Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

“We solicit for an intense prayer for their quick and safe release, we equally wish to call on all and sundry to refrain from taking the laws into their hands.

“We will use every legitimate means to ensure their quick and safe release.

“May Jesus crucified on the Cross listen to our prayers and hasten the unconditional release of His Priests and all other kidnapped persons.”

As of the time of filing this report, the bandits have not called to demand any ransom.

Catholic priests in Kaduna have come under attack by armed bandits in recent times.

Reverend Father Vitus Borogo was killed two months ago in his farm at Kujama, while several others have been kidnapped.