Tragedy struck Kwassam and Sabon Layi Kan Makama communities in the Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State as bandits unleashed terror, resulting in the death of six residents and the abduction of scores, including a retired director of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU) confirmed the grim incident, revealing that at least 50 residents were abducted by the assailants. However, an official statement from the state government, delivered by Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, acknowledged the attack but remained silent on the casualties and abductions.
Governor Uba Sani condemned the heinous attack, expressing condolences to the victims’ families and advocating for intensified military operations against bandits across the state, particularly in the wake of recent assaults in Igabi and Kauru LGAs.
The assault unfolded around 10 p.m. on Friday when the marauding bandits, in large numbers, descended upon the communities, firing indiscriminately. They forcibly abducted individuals, including the retired CBN director and his family members, after being led to his residence at gunpoint.
Eyewitnesses recounted the horrifying ordeal, detailing how residents attempting to intervene were met with lethal force, resulting in the tragic deaths of six individuals and injuries to six others. Among the deceased are identified as Danmasani Gwaska, Mrs. Giwa John, Kapishi Barmu, Ganya Ubangida, Shigama Salisu, and Gani Magawata.
The abducted individuals, including Zakariya Markus (retired CBN director), Monday Markus (his brother), his wife, and others, were taken captive by the ruthless bandits.
Josiah Abraks, spokesman for SOKAPU, denounced the barbaric attack, labeling it as “despicable and condemnable.” He called upon the state government and relevant authorities to intensify efforts to ensure the safety and security of all law-abiding citizens.
Governor Sani, represented by Aruwan, reiterated the state’s commitment to combating banditry and extending support to affected communities. He pledged continued aggressive military operations to quell the menace of banditry, promising justice for the victims and their families.