13 killed, several abducted as bandits attack wedding ceremony in Kaduna

At least 13 people have been killed and several others abducted following a late-night attack by suspected bandits at a wedding ceremony in Kahir village, located in the Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The incident, which occurred at approximately 11:47 PM on Sunday, has significantly heightened concerns regarding the deteriorating security situation in rural communities across the state.

According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers arrived in large numbers, armed with sophisticated weapons. They reportedly invaded the wedding venue and opened fire on guests, causing widespread panic and confusion.

A local resident, Shehu Bala, confirmed that numerous victims sustained gunshot injuries and were initially rushed to the General Hospital in Kagarko, while those in critical condition were later referred to facilities in Kaduna for advanced medical care.

Due to the chaotic nature of the assault, the exact number of those abducted remains uncertain. A community leader, speaking on the condition of anonymity, noted that the assailants operated for nearly an hour without resistance.

In addition to the casualties and abductions, the attackers reportedly looted local shops, carting away food items, provisions, and medical supplies. Many residents were forced to flee into nearby bushes as gunfire echoed through the community during the raid.

A police source in Kagarko confirmed the incident, stating that security agencies are currently working to ascertain the full scale of the abductions.

The spokesperson for the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Hassan Mansur, also confirmed the development, assuring the public that a comprehensive report will be released following preliminary investigations.

In the wake of the tragedy, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, accompanied by Senator Sani Musa, visited the injured victims receiving treatment at the hospital in Kagarko.

This latest attack underscores the persistent threat of insecurity in parts of Kaduna State; notably, 14 individuals abducted from the nearby Janjala community three weeks ago remain in captivity.

The victims of the Kahir village attack have since been laid to rest as the community awaits further communication from the abductors.