Bandits have unleashed terror in Kwasam community, Kauru Local Government Area (LGA), and Gwada community in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State, resulting in the death of at least nine individuals. In addition, 35 people were kidnapped during the raids, among them a retired Director of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), his brother, and the brother’s wife.
The assault also left nine individuals wounded across the two affected LGAs. The retired CBN official was identified as Zakariya Markus. A detailed account of the incident revealed that six people lost their lives, five were abducted, and two suffered injuries in Kauru LGA, whereas in Igabi LGA, three were killed, seven injured, and 30 kidnapped.
The attacks reportedly took place last Friday around 10 pm when bandits stormed the communities. Sources indicate that the bandits initially captured two individuals at gunpoint, who then led them to the home of the retired CBN director, resulting in his abduction along with his brother and sister-in-law. Attempts by residents to thwart the abductions led to the bandits opening fire, causing fatalities and injuries.
Victims of the attack included Danmasani Gwaska, Mrs. Giwa John, Kapishi Barmu, Ganya Ubangida, Shigama Salisu, and Gani Magawata, with the kidnapped individuals named as Mr. Zakariya Markus, Mr. Monday Markus, Mrs. Monday Markus, Mr. Alhamdu Makeri’s son, and Baban Fati of Kauru.
In response to these heinous acts, Kaduna Governor Uba Sani has called for intensified military actions against banditry in the state and extended his sympathies to the bereaved families of Igabi and Kauru LGAs.
Governor Sani’s sentiments were conveyed by Samuel Aruwan, the Overseeing Commissioner of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, during a visit to Gwada and Kerawa villages in Igabi LGA for a security assessment. The visit, which included Brigadier General Muhammad Kana, the Garrison Commander of One Division Nigerian Army, and other security operatives, emphasized the state’s commitment to ramping up military operations in areas plagued by banditry.