Bandits have killed eight people in Ungwan Gaida community, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna state.
Confirming the killings in a statement on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr. Samuel Aruwan, said the Assemblies of God Church and several houses were burnt by the bandits.
The commissioner said the killings were reported to the state government by security agencies.
He also said three bandits were killed while two accomplices arrested.
The statement listed those killed as: Samaila Gajere, Bawa Gajere, Bitrus Baba, Umaru Baba, Solomon Samaila, Sambo Kasuwa, Samuila Kasuwa and Gideon Bitrus.
Aruwan said, “In another development, Nigerian Navy troops stationed in the Kujama general area neutralized three bandits and arrested two accomplices after repelling an attack on Wakwodna community, near Kasso village, Chikun LGA.
“According to operational feedback to the Kaduna State Government, the troops stationed at the Kujama Checkpoint responded to reports of an attack on Wakwodna village and swiftly deployed for intervention.”
He said the bandits fled into surrounding bushes on sighting the troops and abandoned some rustled cattle, which were rounded up and returned to their rightful owners.
According to the commissioner, “The troops engaged the bandits just before Kaso village, and in the gunfight, three bandits were neutralized.
“Two locals who were injured in the exchange, were evacuated for medical attention”.
He said further that during the operation, troops arrested a suspected informant for the bandits – one Kapido Halilu, and a logistics supplier, Umar Maipashi, adding that food stuffs and medical supplies meant for the bandits were confiscated.
Aruwan said the suspects were taken into custody for further investigation.
He said, “Governor Nasir El-Rufai noted the report of the attack on Ungwan Gaida with sadness, and condoled the families of the slain citizens, as he offered prayers for the repose of their souls.
“The governor further condemned the attack on the place of worship, and directed the State Emergency Management Agency to carry out an urgent assessment of the damage in the area for intervention.
“Governor El-Rufai commended the Nigerian Navy troops for their swift response in Wakwodna, and the successful operations. He wished the injured citizens a quick recovery.”
