20 dead as gunmen attack Southern Kaduna community

A group of gunmen attacked the Sankwab community located in the Zango-Kataf Local Government Area of Southern Kaduna killing at least 20 people.

On Saturday night, the attackers invaded and destroyed several homes while causing damage to properties worth millions of naira.

The Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, confirmed the incident but did not disclose the exact number of casualties.

According to a source, the perpetrators, who are believed to be Fulani militia, opened fire randomly and killed at least twenty villagers, causing panic and forcing residents to flee for their lives. However, the military’s timely intervention helped to contain the situation.

In response to the latest killings in Southern Kaduna, the Commissioner revealed that the military had informed the state government of the significant loss of lives.

In a statement released to newsmen on Sunday, titled “Several lives lost in Runji village of Zangon Kataf LGA… El-Rufai condemns killings,” he reported that the attack resulted in numerous fatalities and many residents sustaining injuries. Additionally, according to the preliminary report submitted to the state government, an unspecified number of houses were burned.

Commissioner’s Statement on Attack in Southern Kaduna

“The military has informed the Kaduna State Government of an attack in Runji village, Zangon Kataf LGA, in which several lives were lost on Saturday night.

“The preliminary report further informed the government that the attack also left some residents injured and an unspecified number of houses burnt down in the community.

“According to the report, troops had a fierce encounter with the attackers and are still in the general area.

“While waiting for a detailed report, Governor Nasir El-Rufai who received the preliminary report in the early hours of Sunday has condemned the killings as unacceptable and unjustifiable.

“The Governor condoled the families that lost their loved ones and prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

“The Kaduna State Government will update the public on the incident as soon as detailed reports are received from the security agencies.”