Kaduna state Government says bandits have killed eight residents and razed buildings in Chikun Local Government Area of the state.

The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, made the announcement in a statement he issued on Wednesday in Kaduna.

Aruwan said: “Security agencies have reported that bandits attacked Ungwan Gaida community, near Kurmin Kaso, Chikun Local Government Area.

“As of the time of this update, eight residents have been confirmed killed in this attack.”

According to him, a worship centre was razed by the bandits, along with several houses.

In another development, the Nigerian Navy troops stationed in the Kujama General Area killed three bandits and arrested two accomplices after repelling an attack on Wakwodna community, near Kasso village, Chikun Local Government Area.

According to operational feedback to Kaduna State government, the troops stationed at the Kujama Checkpoint responded to reports of an attack on Wakwodna village, and swiftly deployed for intervention.

He explained that the bandits fled into surrounding bush on sighting the troops and abandoned some rustled cattle, which were rounded up and returned to their rightful owners.

“The troops engaged the bandits just before Kaso village and in the gunfight, three bandits were neutralised.

“Two locals who were injured in the exchange were evacuated for medical attention,” the commissioner said.

Aruwan said: “during the operation, the troops arrested a suspected bandits’ informant, Kapido Halilu, and a logistics supplier, Umar Maipashi.“

Food and medical supplies meant for the bandits were confiscated. The suspects were taken into custody for further investigation.

The Commissioner said that Governor Nasiru el-Rufai noted the report of the attack on Ungwan Gaida with sadness, and condoled with the families of the slain citizens.

“The governor further condemned the attack on the place of worship, and directed the State Emergency Management Agency to carry out an urgent assessment of the damage in the area for intervention.

“El-Rufai commended the Nigerian Navy troops for their swift response in Wakwodna and the successful operations,” Aruwan said.

NAN