Death toll rises to 33 in S’Kaduna bandit attack; victims receive mass burial

A bandit attack on Saturday at Runji Village in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State has left 33 people dead, according to Francis Sani, Chairman of the council.

The bandits burned over 40 houses and injured seven people, who are receiving treatment in the hospital. Victims of the attack received a mass burial, attended by their relatives and members of the community, who called on the government and security agencies to stop the insecurity in the southern part of Kaduna.

The gunmen attacked the community at around 10pm on Saturday, killing some residents in their sleep and setting houses on fire. The vigilantes attempted to engage the attackers but were overpowered. The military task force intervened and repelled the bandits.

Samuel Aruwan, State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, confirmed the incident, stating that several lives were lost and an unspecified number of houses burnt down. The Zangon Kataf LGA has been under relentless bandit attacks in recent months.

Governor Nasir el-Rufai has condemned the killings and offered condolences to the families of the victims. He prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls and the speedy recovery of the injured. The Kaduna State government will update the public when detailed reports are received from security agencies.