No fewer than 30 people have been confirmed dead after suspected gunmen launched a deadly attack on Naridon Village in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The attack, which occurred on Sunday night, reportedly targeted the community, killing scores of residents, including women and children, while setting several houses ablaze.
Residents of the community said at least 30 bodies have so far been recovered from the aftermath of the attack, with fears that the death toll could increase as search and recovery operations continue.
The assault left a trail of destruction, with numerous homes completely destroyed by fire, forcing many residents to flee for safety.
The number of those injured or displaced has not yet been officially confirmed, as authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage.
The latest incident has further intensified concerns over the deteriorating security situation in Kauru Local Government Area and other parts of Southern Kaduna, where communities have repeatedly come under attack.
Community leaders and residents have appealed to the Kaduna State Government, the Federal Government and security agencies to urgently reinforce security in the area and take decisive action to prevent further attacks.
The attack comes amid a fresh wave of violence across Southern Kaduna.
Last week, reports emerged that at least eight people abducted from Ariko and Awon villages in Kachia Local Government Area died while in captivity.
According to journalist and former Kaduna State Government spokesperson Reuben Buhari, seven of the deceased were among residents kidnapped from Ariko village, while the eighth victim was a newborn baby delivered by a woman who had been abducted from neighbouring Awon village.
The victims were reportedly held for more than three months under harsh conditions before they died, highlighting the persistent insecurity affecting communities across Southern Kaduna.
