Kaduna State government says 34 people have been confirmed dead while over 230 houses and shops were burnt following Sunday’s attack in Kaura local government area of the state.
In a statement by the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr Samuel Aruwan says four locations were attacked by unidentified assailants which are Tsonje, Agban, Katanga and Kadarko, all within Kagoro Chiefdom of Kaura Local government.
According to the Statement, two military personnel were among the 34 killed, with local residents making up 32 casualties.
The statement explains that, Seven people were injured and are currently receiving treatment.
It says over 200 houses and 32 shops were burnt in the attack while three vehicles and 17 motorcycles were vandalized.
While condemning the attack in the strongest terms, Governor Nasir El-Rufa’i expressed his grief and sent condolences to the families of the locals killed.
He prayed for the repose of their souls as he wished the injured a quick recovery.
The Governor also condoled the Military High Command, and the families of the military personnel who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty during this attack.
The statement also says Governor Elrufai appealed to citizens to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts were sustained to stabilize the areas.
“Kaduna State Government enjoins all residents to carefully observe the 24-hour curfew in force in the area. The curfew was declared on the advice of security agencies to prevent the escalation of violence.
“Security reports revealed that criminals took advantage of the chaos to wreak havoc of their own. A bus was attacked by a mob in Agban, and the conductor was killed. Similarly, some places of worship were touched as tension rose in Kafanchan” .
The curfew is therefore essential to urgently stem the tide of violence. Government is working ceaselessly with security forces to restore normalcy to the area. Deep consultations with stakeholders are also ongoing.
AMINU DALHATU
