At least nine farmers have been killed and several others abducted in an 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 and opened fire on farmers working in their fields.
The report said nine bodies had been recovered, with six of the victims identified by local authorities.
However, a community leader in Birnin Gwari, Kabiru Ishaq, said 10 people were killed during the attack.
He alleged that the assault was carried out in retaliation after farmers reportedly killed a suspected bandit during a failed robbery attempt earlier that day.
The security report also stated that the slain bandit’s associates returned with reinforcements and launched the attack on the community.
Kaduna is among the states most affected by armed banditry, with criminal groups frequently attacking rural communities, killing residents, kidnapping victims for ransom and stealing livestock.
Despite a peace agreement reached in November 2024 between community leaders and armed groups in Birnin Gwari, attacks have continued across the district.
Last month, at least six farmers were reportedly killed and 20 others abducted during an attack on Danauta village in the same local government area.
