Bandits Kill HEKAN Pastor, Abduct Over 20 In Kaduna Community Raid

Suspected bandits have brutally murdered a pastor of the United Church of Christ in Nigeria (UCCN), also known as HEKAN, and kidnapped more than 20 residents during a violent overnight attack on Farin Dutse community in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

In a statement released by the church’s president, Rev. Dr. Amos Kiri, the attack took place in the early hours of Tuesday, October 28, 2025, leaving the quiet agrarian settlement in turmoil. According to him, the armed assailants stormed the area, firing sporadically and seizing several villagers, including members of the HEKAN congregation.

The slain cleric, identified as Rev. Yahaya Kambasiya, reportedly sought refuge on a nearby farm during the chaos but was tragically gunned down as he attempted to return home, thinking the attackers had departed.

“Reverend Kambasiya and a few others had to hide in a farm until the gunshots subsided,” Rev. Kiri said. “Unfortunately, when he came out thinking the bandits had gone, he was shot from behind and died instantly.”

The church confirmed that Rev. Kambasiya’s remains have been taken to a morgue, while arrangements are underway in consultation with his family for his burial.

The incident adds to a growing list of violent attacks in Kaduna State, where communities continue to face waves of kidnappings and killings despite repeated calls for stronger security intervention.