By Segun Otokiti
Suspected bandits launched a deadly attack on a wedding celebration in Kahir village, Kagarko Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State in north-west Nigeria.
The assault occurred late Sunday night, around 11:47 p.m., resulting in at least 13 confirmed deaths and several guests sustaining gunshot wounds.
Kagarko has recently become a hotspot for such violence, often linked to criminal bandits or tensions between local farming communities and herders.
At least 10 people were injured in the Sunday incident, with many rushed to the General Hospital in Kagarko, and those in critical condition referred to facilities in Kaduna for advanced care.
While early reports from local sources and community leaders like Musa Adamu indicate that several guests were abducted, there are conflicting accounts.
A security report prepared for the United Nations confirmed kidnappings occurred, though a separate Nigerian military situation report initially denied any abductions took place.
Gunmen, described as arriving in large numbers and armed with sophisticated rifles, stormed the wedding hall and opened fire indiscriminately.
The bandits reportedly operated for nearly an hour without resistance, during which they also looted nearby shops for food, provisions, and drugs.
It was reported that a vigilante group in the neighboring community of Kuratan had spotted the bandits earlier and sent a warning to disperse the gathering.
While some attendees fled, others remained and were caught in the assault.
Responding to the attack, the Kaduna State Police Command, through spokesperson DSP Hassan Mansur, confirmed the attack.
Authorities stated that they are still gathering full details regarding the exact number of abducted victims and have commenced a manhunt to apprehend the perpetrators.
