Suspected “repentant” bandits have reportedly killed a commercial driver and abducted nine other people in separate attacks along the Kaduna–Birnin Gwari highway and parts of Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The slain driver, identified as Mallam Ibrahim Adamu, was said to be the grandson of a District Head in the Birnin Gwari Emirate. A family source confirmed that Ibrahim was killed during an attack at Kwanan Giginya along the Kaduna–Birnin Gwari Road.
According to reports, armed attackers opened fire on his commercial vehicle, killing him instantly before abducting about five passengers who were travelling with him.
In another incident, four farmers were reportedly kidnapped while working on their farms in the Kurgi area of Birnin Gwari Local Government Area.
The victims were said to have been carrying out their agricultural activities when the gunmen stormed the area and took them to an unknown location.
The latest attacks have renewed concerns over insecurity along the Kaduna–Birnin Gwari corridor, an area that has continued to experience violence despite previous peace efforts and negotiations with some armed groups.
Residents lament that the recurring attacks have disrupted farming, transportation, and economic activities in rural communities.
Community members also alleged that armed groups operating in the area frequently rob victims of motorcycles, phones, money, and other valuables, in addition to cases of abduction and killings.
They have called on security agencies to increase surveillance, strengthen patrols along major routes, and provide better protection for vulnerable farming communities to prevent further attacks.