Yesterday, the killing spree in Kaduna State continued.
Following the killing of 42 people in two communities, there was outrage.
Gunmen killed 34 of them in Madamai, Kaura Local Government Area, and eight others in Kacecere, Zangon Kataf Council, in retaliation.
Gunmen stormed the ECWA Church in Gabaciwa, Kachia Council, last Sunday, killing one worshipper during a service.
The Madamai and Gabaciwa violence was confirmed by Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs Samuel Aruwan.
Governor Nasir El-Rufai, he said, had condemned the killings and ordered security agencies to step up their efforts to apprehend the perpetrators.
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Six people were rescued from four houses set on fire by the gunmen, who also injured many people in Madamai, according to the commissioner.
According to him, two of the arsonists were apprehended by troops who engaged them in a gunfight.
“As of the time of this update, 34 residents have been confirmed dead as a result of the attack,” Aruwan said.
“Seven more people were injured and taken to a hospital in Plateau State.
“Governor El-Rufai has stated that the Kaduna State Government will cover the entire cost of treating injured victims.
“In addition, security agencies briefed Governor El-Rufai on the roles played by the Chief of Kagoro, Ufuwai Bonet, and the member representing Kaura Federal Constituency, Gideon Gwani, in calming the situation and preventing a breakdown in law and order following the unfortunate incident.
“The Governor praised them for their hard work and excellent leadership.
“He also directed the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency to conduct an immediate assessment of the area in order to provide assistance to the affected households.
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“The governor was deeply moved by the reports and condemned the heinous attack, which he described as an unspeakable act of wickedness that deserved the harshest form of punishment.
“He expressed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and communities and prayed for the repose of their souls.
“He called for calm and urged security agencies to step up their efforts in the fight against the indiscriminate killing of civilians.
“He also directed security agencies to conduct prompt and thorough investigations into the heinous incident.
“At this time, two suspects in connection with the attack are being questioned.
“Security agencies are operating in the general area, and the government will keep citizens informed.”
The Kacecere attack, according to the commissioner, was a retaliation by the gunmen for the killings in Madamai and Jankasa in the Zangon Kataf council area.
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“The Kaduna State Government received reports from security agencies of an attack by unknown persons in Kacecere village, Zangon Kataf Local Government, resulting in the deaths of some citizens,” Aruwan said.
“According to reports, this attack was retaliation for earlier attacks in Jankasa, in which one Mr. Yakubu Danjuma was killed, and in Madamai, in which 34 people were killed.
“According to security agencies, the attacks in these two locations prompted unidentified assailants to retaliate against the Kacecere community, resulting in eight deaths, six injuries, and the destruction of several homes.
“Governor El-Rufai also expressed his sadness over the reports and expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased, praying for their souls to rest in peace.
“The governor urged communities to use the law as a last resort and to avoid retaliation and other forms of violence. He also ordered thorough investigations into the incident by security agencies.
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“At the time of this update, troops and police officers are on the scene, and the public will be briefed once official reports are received.”