Bandit Terrorists Release Kidnapped Catholic Priest In Kaduna

Gunmen suspected to be bandits have freed a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Luka Benson Yakusak, kidnapped from his residence in Anchuna, Zango-Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Naija News had reported that Yakusak, who is in charge of St. Mathew’s Catholic Church, Anchuna, was kidnapped on Monday night.

This news reports that the gunmen were said to have stormed the priest’s official residence and whisked him away to an unknown destination.

But in a statement on Wednesday by the Chancellor of Kafanchan Catholic Diocese, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Uchechukwu Okolo, confirmed the release of the priest.

Okolo refused to say when Yakusak was freed by his captors but noted that the cleric was set free “barely 24 hours after his kidnap.”

He, however, thanked Nigerians for their concern while offering prayers to God to hasten the release of other victims in kidnappers’ dens.

The statement read: “With hearts filled with joy, we raise our voices in a symphony of praises as we announce the return of our Priest, Rev. Fr. Benson Bulus Luka. Fr. Benson was abducted by armed persons from his residence at St. Matthew’s Parish Anchuna, in Zango Kataf Local Government Area, Kaduna State, on Monday 13 September 2021.

“Barely 24 hours after his kidnap, our beloved brother priest was released by his abductors.

“We want to thank all those that have offered prayers and entreaties for the quick release of our Brother Priest and Others who are still in the dens of their kidnappers. We pray God to hasten the release of those who are still in the hands of their Captors.

“All our Priests are directed to kindly celebrate Mass of Thanksgiving to God tomorrow, Wednesday 15th September 2021, for the quick and safe release of our Brother, Fr. Benson.

“May Our Lady of Guadalupe intercede for us and all those that are still in captivity!”