At least nine farmers have been killed and several others kidnapped following a deadly attack by suspected bandits on Kakangi village in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
According to a security report seen by AFP, the attackers stormed farmlands on Saturday, opening fire on farmers while they were working.
The report said nine bodies had been recovered, with six of the victims already identified by local authorities.
However, a community leader in Birnin Gwari, Kabiru Ishaq, who visited the village after the attack, said 10 people were killed.
Preliminary findings suggest the attack was carried out in retaliation after local farmers reportedly killed a suspected bandit during an attempted robbery earlier that day.
The report stated that one of the surviving gang members later returned with reinforcements and launched the deadly assault on the community.
Kaduna remains one of the states worst affected by bandit attacks, with armed gangs frequently targeting rural communities, killing residents, kidnapping victims for ransom and destroying property.
The latest incident comes despite a peace agreement reached in November 2024 between local authorities and armed groups in Birnin Gwari.
Residents say attacks on farming communities have continued, raising fresh concerns over security as the rainy season progresses.
Just last month, at least six farmers were killed and 20 others abducted during another attack on Danauta village, also in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area.
