Bandits Raid Kaduna Community, Abduct 7

Suspected bandits have killed two residents and abducted seven others during an attack on Awon community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

A resident of the area who pleaded anonymity, said the assailants stormed the community in the early hours of Monday, unleashing terror on villagers.

Reuben Buhari, the media adviser to late Kaduna State governor, Patrick Yakowa who posted on his verified Facebook page, said two residents were killed, while seven were kidnapped.

He also disclosed that the attackers stormed the village at about 9 a.m. on about 15 motorcycles, with two persons on each bike.

Buhari explained that the gunmen split into two groups upon arrival and began shooting sporadically, forcing residents to flee into nearby bushes.

According to him, the two persons killed in the attack were identified as Joseph Sule and Awilo Madugu.

Buhari further stated that seven residents were abducted during the raid, naming them as Gift Victor, Hannatu Yusuf, Salina Sam, Silvia Sam, Dogarah Maisamari, Hassana Bulus and Joy Samaila.

He added that three girls remain unaccounted for, as some residents who fled into the bush during the attack are yet to return.

“One person is also critically ill and currently receiving treatment at a hospital,” he said.

Buhari recalled that on April 12, bandits had attempted to attack the community during a church service around 10 a.m., but were repelled by security operatives.

He noted that the swift response of security personnel helped to limit casualties in Monday’s attack.

Residents of Awon community have expressed concern over the recurring attacks and called for increased security presence to forestall further incidents.

As of the time of filing this report, the Kaduna State Police Command is yet to issue an official statement on the incident.