…Also lay ambush for troops.
by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
At least eleven persons have been confirmed killed, dozens injured and over 30 houses burnt in a fresh terror attacks in Zangon Kataf of Southern Kaduna area, Kaduna State, security update by security forces have revealed on Sunday.
The fresh attacks, which also occurred in broad day light, appears as but a full glare war on the communities, and came barely a few days after an alleged failed reconciliation meeting between the two major religious followers in the state by government.
A statement issued by the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr Samuel Aruwan, had it that Security Forces reported to the Kaduna State Government that Kurmin Masara general area of Zangon Kataf LGA was attacked in the early hours of Sunday.
According to the reports, troops of the Nigerian Air Force Special Forces, which responded to distress calls from the area, also fell into an ambush as they mobilized to the scene of the attack.
“The troops cleared the ambush and reached the general area, along with troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH).
“As of 4:30PM, ‘broad day light,’ eleven residents were confirmed killed, and some inflicted with gunshot injuries.
“The victims so far confirmed killed, including six female and five male, are Elizabeth Ayuba, Veronica Auta, Bege Daniel, Kephas Waje, Promise Jacob, Damaris Istifanus, Hauwa Joshua, Dogara Gambo, Lidia Ishaya, Michael Achi and Gabriel Michael, respectively.”
The statement confirmed that, “Over thirty houses and properties were burnt in the attack. The injured were evacuated for treatment. Search-and-rescue operations and pursuit of the attackers are in progress on different fronts.
“The Government of Kaduna State will make public further details as soon as they are received from security forces,” it stated.
Governor Nasir El-Rufa’i, who has been in touch with the security forces and is receiving hourly briefings, expressed sadness at this report of the latest in a series of attacks in the area.
He prayed for the repose of all those killed and conveyed his condolences to their families. He further wished the injured a speedy recovery.
