At least five people, including minors, have been killed after armed terrorists commonly referred to as bandits stormed a community in Southern Kaduna.
The brutal attack took place in Damakasuwa, located in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Local sources confirmed that several other victims sustained severe injuries and are currently in critical condition.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers invaded the community and opened fire indiscriminately before attacking residents at close range.
“We have recovered five bodies so far, including children,” a resident said, noting that more casualties may be discovered.
Series of Attacks in Kaduna
This latest tragedy is part of a disturbing wave of violence across Kaduna State in recent days.
On Friday, traders traveling to the weekly Layin Danauta market in Birnin Gwari were abducted when bandits intercepted their vehicle at Kwanan Danwandara in Tabani Ward. The victims, including the driver, were taken into the forest. Two other residents riding a motorcycle were also kidnapped during the attack.
The traders were reportedly coming from Dandume in Katsina State when the ambush occurred around 8am. The exact number of abductees remains uncertain, as the vehicle was believed to be carrying more passengers than its capacity.
Earlier in the week, nine people were kidnapped from Rafin Roro in Kajuru Local Government Area. The village head, Mallam Adamu Auta, narrowly escaped, but several members of his family were taken away.
Witnesses say bandits have been terrorizing the area frequently, abducting residents and stealing livestock, with many incidents going unreported.
In another attack, bandits raided Bukkah village in Chikun Local Government Area, kidnapping at least seven residents after a midnight assault that forced villagers to flee into the surrounding bushes. The difficult terrain reportedly delayed security response.
The kidnapped victims were identified as:
- Mohammed Rufai
- Sagiru Musa
- Bala Usman
- Aisha’atu Usman
- Bilkisu Isiya
- Sa’adiya Usman
- Wasila Usman
Additionally, in Nissi community, Chikun LGA, bandits abducted an Anglican priest, Reverend Edwin Achi, and his wife, Sarah Achi, from their home. Church members expressed concern over continued attacks and the lack of adequate media coverage.
Kaduna State has continued to experience repeated cases of killings, kidnappings, and cattle rustling, heightening fear among residents and raising concerns about security measures in the region.
