By Hadiza Mohammed, Northern Operation
Armed bandits have attacked farming communities in Kaduna State, killing several farmers, injuring others and reportedly abducting some residents, in the latest assault to deepen concerns over the safety of agricultural workers in the area.
The attackers reportedly invaded farms in Dunya and Shado communities, both located in Kuyello Ward in the Birnin Gwari area of the state, while farmers were carrying out their daily activities.
A source familiar with the incident told SaharaReporters that the attack triggered panic among residents, forcing farmers to abandon their farms and flee the affected communities for fear of further assaults.
The precise number of people killed, injured or abducted could not be independently verified as of the time of filing this report.
The latest incident has renewed concerns about the persistent insecurity confronting farming communities across the Birnin Gwari axis, where armed groups have continued to carry out attacks despite ongoing security operations.
The assault occurred only days after security forces reported major operations along the same axis.
Between September 9 and 10, troops of the Joint Task Force reportedly arrested a suspected terrorist kingpin, a logistics supplier and an ammunition courier who was allegedly found carrying 300 rounds of ammunition.
The security forces also recovered communication devices and radio equipment reportedly believed to be connected to plans to attack residents in the area.
However, the latest assault underscores the difficulty security agencies continue to face in containing armed groups and protecting vulnerable farming communities.
The recurring attacks have also heightened fears among farmers, many of whom depend on access to their farms for their livelihoods and food production.
The Kaduna State Police Command had not issued any official statement regarding the reported latest bandits attacks and killing of farmers.
