Authorities in northwestern Kaduna State say gunmen have killed no less than thirteen people in a series of attacks across Zangon Kataf, Kauru and Chikun local government areas of the state.
The Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan confirmed the attacks on Friday and said seven people were injured while 56 houses and 16 motorcycles were razed in Kauru.
He gave the names of the citizens that were killed in Kauru as Esther Bulus, Maria Bulus (the one-year-old daughter of Esther), Lami Bulus, Aliyu Bulus, Monday Joseph, Geje Abuba, Wakili Filibus, Yakubu Ali, Dije Waziri, and Joseph Ibrahim.
Mr Aruwan noted that one Duza Bamaiyi was killed, and two other persons were injured, in Masaka village, Chikun.
In Kurmin village, also in Chikun local government area, the armed bandits were said to have killed one Zakka Pada and injured another resident.
“Governor Nasir El-Rufai noted the report with sadness and prayed for the repose of the souls of the slain while sending condolences to their families. He wished the injured citizens quick recovery,” Aruwan said in a statement.
In recent weeks, Kaduna state has witnessed intense attacks by bandits, with cases of killings occurring almost on a daily basis, with the governor, Nasir El-Rufai insisting he won’t negotiate with bandits.