From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
Bandits have killed one person and abducted seven others in a daring early morning attack on the Sabon Gyero community in Millennium City, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The attackers, who stormed the community in large numbers, invaded a residence and kidnapped three women and four children.
They also targeted a phone charging centre, shooting and killing a young man, Abdullahi Lawal, popularly known as “Kurma,” (deaf man) and making off with several mobile phones and laptops.
The deceased, who was deaf and non-verbal, sustained a gunshot wound in the head and was rushed to a hospital but died before receiving medical attention.
He was later buried in the Sabon Gyero community in accordance with Islamic rites.
One of the kidnapped women was later released by the kidnappers due to health complications.
This latest attack highlights the growing security concerns in Millennium City, which industry assaults have frequently plagued. In fact, the Dan Hono 2 community, neighboring Sabon Gyero, has been attacked about ten times, leaving residents in constant fear.
Just last year, 36 people were kidnapped in a similar incident in the area, sparking widespread protests and calls for increased security measures.
The Joint Task Force (JTF) responded to the incident, but the attackers escaped.
Commandant of the JTF, Uwaisu Yunusa, said members of the task force heard gunshots and attempted to pursue the attackers but were unable to catch them.
The Kaduna State Police Command has promised to establish a police outpost in the area to enhance security.
Commissioner of Police Rabiu Muhammad has visited the community and assured residents of the police’s commitment to improving safety.
The military has also launched operations to neutralize the bandits and restore peace to the area.
The recurring attacks have raised concerns about the government’s ability to protect citizens and address the rising insecurity in the state.
As the people of Sabon Gyero mourn the loss of Abdullahi Lawal, they demand increased security measures to prevent future attacks and ensure the safe return of the abducted victims
