By Gabriel Ude
Bandits for the umpteenth time over the weekend unleashed terror in Kaduna, killing 19 people, setting houses ablaze in the two local government areas of Birnin-Gwari and Kajuru.
According to the Kaduna state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr. Samuel Aruwan, who confirmed the incidents Sunday the attacks happened on Saturday.
Aruwan in a statement said, “On a sad note, the Kaduna State Government has received reports from security agencies of the killing of 19 citizens in Birnin Gwari and Kajuru local government areas of Kaduna Central Senatorial District.
“The citizens were killed by armed bandits at Kutemeshi village in Birnin Gwari and Kujeni village in Kajuru, where several others were left with bullet wounds.”
The commissioner identified those killed at Kutemeshi village of Birnin Gwari LGA to include, Malan Sani Barume, Yahaya Bello, Amadu Dan Korau, Samaila Niga, Jamilu Haruna, Lawal Majiya, Dan Malam Rabo, Dauda Kafinta, Hassan Mai Makani, Bashir Haruna, Lawal Ali, Mu’azu Haruna and Mai Unguwa Sa’adu as well as Harisu Bako.
Aruwan also said several people were injured while some shops were also looted with valuable items carted away, “Some of the injured have been moved to a neighboring state closer to Kutemeshi for urgent medical attention, while others are in transit to an orthopedic hospital in Kaduna.
“So far, only the 14 corpses have been recovered from Kutemeshi. The Kaduna State Government will provide updates on any emerging developments.”
Similarly, the commissioner said in Kujeni village of Kajuru LG, the attackers burnt several houses, storehouses with foodstuff, warehouses loaded with building materials, and a Church.
He also gave the names of those killed during that attack as Bulus Jatau, Hanatu Emmanuel, Bitrus Tuna, Yohanna Mika, and Monday Ayuba. He said two people were injured during the attack. According to him, those injured include Bulus Sambayi and Godwin Yakubu.
He said Governor Nasir El-Rufai expressed concern over the renewed attacks and commiserated with the bereaved families.
“The Governor who condoled families that lost their loved ones offered prayers for the repose of their souls and a speedy recovery for the injured.
“He further directed the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency to urgently provide relief materials to the affected communities.
“The government and security agencies are following up on a reported attack on Sunday morning around Kikwari village of Kajuru LGA, and will also provide an update as soon as feedback is received,” the commissioner added.
