Kaduna wedding attack leaves at least 13 dead in Kagarko as gunmen abduct guests and trigger panic in the community

Suspected bandits have attacked a wedding ceremony in Kahir village in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State, killing at least 13 people and abducting an unspecified number of guests in a violent incident that has shocked residents.

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The Kaduna wedding attack occurred late on Sunday night when armed assailants stormed the venue and opened fire on attendees gathered for the celebration.

Witnesses said the attackers operated for nearly an hour without resistance, creating widespread panic as guests attempted to flee.

A resident, Shehu Bala, recounted that the gunmen arrived around 11:47 pm and immediately began shooting inside the wedding hall.

He said some of his acquaintances sustained gunshot injuries during the assault, highlighting the scale of the violence.

Several injured victims were transported to Kagarko General Hospital for emergency care, while those with more severe injuries were later moved to Kaduna for advanced treatment.

Community sources confirmed that the deceased have been buried, as families and local leaders continue to grapple with the aftermath.

A community leader, whose identity was not disclosed, confirmed that 13 people lost their lives in the attack.

He also noted that efforts are ongoing to determine the exact number of individuals abducted during the raid.

According to him, the attackers looted nearby shops, carting away food items, provisions and medicines from a local chemist.

The attack caused widespread fear across the community, forcing some residents to flee into nearby bushes to escape the heavy gunfire.

The incident has further heightened concerns about insecurity in rural parts of Kaduna State, where similar attacks have been reported in recent times.

Authorities have confirmed the incident.

The spokesperson of the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Hassan Mansur, stated that investigations are ongoing and that a comprehensive report will be released once details are fully verified.

In response to the attack, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, alongside a serving senator, reportedly visited the injured victims at the hospital in Kagarko, expressing concern over the tragic incident and offering support to affected families.

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The Kaduna wedding attack underscores the persistent security challenges in parts of northern Nigeria, with residents calling for stronger measures to prevent further loss of lives and restore confidence in affected communities.