Bandits have once again attacked a community in Kaduna State, abducting nine residents in Rafin Roro village, Kajuru Local Government Area, late Wednesday night.
According to local sources, the armed men invaded the area, firing sporadically before whisking away their victims. The traditional ruler of the village, Mallam Adamu Auta, narrowly escaped the attack, but nine members of his immediate and extended family were taken hostage.
Residents say the attackers have repeatedly raided nearby villages, abducting locals and rustling cattle, with most incidents going unreported.
This latest assault comes barely 24 hours after gunmen kidnapped seven people from Bukkah village in Chikun Local Government Area, also in Kaduna. Victims of that attack were identified as Mohammed Rufai, Sagiru Musa, Bala Usman, Aisha’atu Usman, Bilkisu Isiya, Sa’adiya Usman, and Wasila Usman.
A local government staff member confirmed that the Bukkah attack began with heavy gunfire, sending residents fleeing into nearby forests. The rough terrain and fear of ambush reportedly delayed security response.
In another recent incident, bandits stormed Nissi community in the same LGA, abducting an Anglican priest, Rev. Edwin Achi, and his wife, Sarah, from their home.
Kaduna State has witnessed a surge in violent attacks in recent weeks. Just last week, bandits killed two police officers during an assault on the Divisional Police Headquarters in Zonkwa, Zangon Kataf LGA.
Earlier this month, nine people — including three minors — were murdered in Layin Danauta village, Birnin Gwari LGA. Local sources confirmed that the slain children were daughters of Alhaji Salisu Maiwada, while five married men and a bachelor also lost their lives.
Residents have continued to call on security agencies and state authorities to act decisively, warning that persistent attacks have left many communities deserted and deepened insecurity across Kaduna State.
