A violent attack by suspected bandits occurred in the early hours of Thursday in Babban Saura (PW) community, Chikun local government area of Kaduna state. The attackers invaded three houses in the community, resulting in the death of a resident and the abduction of nine persons. According to a community source, the attackers first targeted the residence of an elderly man, abducting two of his children.
The assailants later proceeded to the residence of Sikiru, where they broke through the fence and gained entry into the compound. Sikiru attempted to resist the attackers when they entered his parlour and engaged some of them in a struggle. Unfortunately, the bandits eventually shot and killed him before abducting his wife and two children. The attackers also invaded a neighbouring house, abducting a woman and her four children.
A community source identified the woman as Maman Mubarak, who was later rescued by soldiers and local vigilantes. However, her four children remained in captivity. The commander of the local vigilantes, Usman Adamu, confirmed the incident, stating that nine persons were initially abducted. Adamu said the vigilantes received a distress call about the attack and immediately alerted soldiers, who joined them in pursuing the bandits.
The security personnel traced the bandits to the Eastern Bypass area and succeeded in rescuing Maman Mubarak. Despite their efforts, the attackers escaped with the other victims. Usman Adamu said the security personnel made efforts to rescue the other victims but were unsuccessful. The incident has raised concerns over the security situation in the area.
Another resident, Anas, said Sikiru had called him after the attackers stormed the community. Anas's account corroborates the community source's statement, adding that the attack was a traumatic experience for the residents. When a correspondent visited the community, sympathisers had gathered at the deceased’s residence, while residents expressed concern over the security situation.
The attack came a few days after suspected bandits invaded a nearby Kadaure community, where a man was reportedly killed and cows rustled. This recent incident suggests a pattern of violent attacks in the area. Residents are increasingly worried about their safety and security.
Efforts to obtain the reaction of the Kaduna state Police command were unsuccessful as the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansur Hassan, could not be reached on phone. The police command's silence on the matter has raised questions about their response to the incident. The community is awaiting a response from the authorities on measures to prevent future attacks.
Key points
- Nine persons were abducted, including a wife and two children of the deceased resident Sikiru.
- The attackers also abducted a woman and her four children from a neighbouring house.
- The incident has raised concerns over the security situation in the Kaduna community.
