Suspected bandits abducted six worshippers at a mosque in Azara community, Kachia Local Government Area, during Thursday night’s Taraweeh prayers, officials confirmed.
The attackers reportedly fired gunshots into the air to intimidate residents before targeting the worshippers.
Local sources said the kidnappers initially seized four men and two women inside the mosque.
While fleeing, they reportedly snatched two additional people from a nearby house, though the latter later escaped unharmed as the gunmen retreated toward nearby forests.
“The community is shaken. Many residents ran for safety as the attackers opened fire,” said a local leader, speaking on condition of anonymity.
“We are urging security agencies to respond quickly to prevent further harm.”
By Friday morning, the kidnappers reportedly contacted the families of the victims, demanding a ransom of 30 million naira.
Authorities are currently coordinating with security operatives to track and rescue the abducted worshippers.
The incident has raised concerns over the security of places of worship in Kaduna State, with local residents calling for enhanced patrols and community vigilance.