13 killed, several abducted as bandits attack Kaduna wedding
By Austine Agbo Emmanuel
No fewer than 13 persons have been killed and several others abducted following a late-night attack by suspected bandits on a wedding ceremony in Kahir village, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The incident occurred on Sunday at about 11:47 p.m., raising fresh concerns over insecurity in rural communities across the state.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers, who arrived in large numbers and were armed with sophisticated weapons, invaded the venue and opened fire on guests, causing panic.
A resident, Shehu Bala, said several victims sustained gunshot injuries and were taken to the General Hospital, Kagarko, while others with severe injuries were referred to Kaduna for further treatment.
He added that the number of abducted persons remains unclear due to the confusion during the attack.
A community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the assailants operated for nearly one hour without resistance.
He added that the attackers looted shops in the community, carting away food items, provisions, and medical supplies.
The victims have since been buried, while efforts to establish contact with the abductors have yet to yield results.
The attack forced many residents to flee into nearby bushes as gunshots echoed across the area.
A police source in Kagarko confirmed the incident, stating that security agencies are working to determine the number of abducted victims.
The spokesperson of the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Hassan Mansur, also confirmed the development, assuring that a comprehensive report would be released after preliminary investigations.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, visited injured victims receiving treatment at the hospital in Kagarko.
The incident highlights growing insecurity in parts of Kaduna State, where several communities, including Janjala, have remained under persistent threat.
At least 14 persons abducted in the area three weeks ago are still in captivity.