Bandits kill nine farmers in Kaduna, kidnap many

A brutal raid by bandits on Kakangi village in Nigeria's Kaduna State has resulted in the deaths of at least nine farmers and the kidnapping of several others. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, saw assailants sweep into farmlands outside the village and open fire on farmers as they worked.

A security report prepared for the United Nations, seen by AFP, confirmed that nine bodies had been recovered, with six victims identified by local authorities. However, a local community leader who visited the village reported that 10 people were killed. The motive for the attack is believed to be revenge, as farmers had reportedly killed a bandit during a failed robbery attempt earlier the same day. The bandit's accomplice allegedly returned with reinforcements to launch a retaliatory assault.

Kaduna State is one of several regions in northern and central Nigeria experiencing a surge in attacks by criminal gangs, locally known as "bandits." These groups engage in kidnapping for ransom, cattle theft, and looting, often targeting farming communities. The attacks have intensified during the annual rainy season, as the gangs impose levies on these communities. Despite a peace agreement brokered in November 2024 between local authorities and bandits in the Birnin Gwari district, attacks have continued. Last month, a similar incident in Danauta village in the same district resulted in the deaths of at least six farmers and the kidnapping of 20 others.

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Nine bodies have been recovered so far, with six of the victims identified by local authorities.