In a ruthless midnight assault that has once again exposed the vulnerability of rural communities in Southern Kaduna, heavily armed gunmen stormed the quiet farming settlement of Unguwar Magaji in Kamaru Ward, Kauru Local Government Area, killing nine people and injuring 11 others.
The attackers struck around 1:30 am, moving with precision and brutality through the community. They surrounded several homes, set some structures on fire, and opened fire indiscriminately on sleeping residents. Survivors described chaotic scenes of rapid gunfire, desperate screams, and people fleeing into nearby bushes as bullets tore through walls and windows.
Many of the victims were caught completely unprepared. Some were killed while trying to shield their children. The gunmen also looted food supplies, livestock, and other valuables before vanishing into the surrounding forests.
Police and Security Intervention
Security forces responded after receiving distress calls from the area. A joint team of police and military personnel was quickly mobilised to Unguwar Magaji. Upon arrival, officers engaged the fleeing gunmen in a brief exchange of fire, forcing them to abandon some of their loot and retreat deeper into the forest.
Police sources confirmed that a rescue operation was immediately activated. The 11 injured victims were given first aid at the scene before being evacuated to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment. Some are in critical condition.
The Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State has ordered a full-scale manhunt. “We are deploying more personnel and working with military counterparts to track down these criminals,” a senior officer said. “No stone will be left unturned.”
Ongoing Operations
As of press time, security agencies have intensified patrols in Unguwar Magaji and surrounding forests under Operation CLEAN SWEEP. Intelligence gathering is ongoing, with community leaders urged to provide credible information while staying away from isolated areas.
Local traditional rulers have condemned the attack and called for more permanent security presence in vulnerable communities. “Our people are farmers, not fighters. We cannot continue to live like this,” one leader said.
This latest massacre in Southern Kaduna adds to the long list of violent incidents that have plagued the region for years, raising fresh questions about the effectiveness of current security strategies in the North-West and North-Central zones.
The Inspector General of Police and the Defence Headquarters have been briefed, and more updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
Source: Sahara Reporters
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