Suspected bandits launched a deadly attack on a mosque in Saya-Saya village, located in the Ikara Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria.

The assailants killed seven people and injured two others during the attack, which occurred during the Friday night Isha’i (Sunset) prayers.

Among the victims was the head of the local vigilante group, whose presence at the mosque was apparently targeted by the attackers.

According to Malam Abdulrahaman Yusuf, the village head, the assailants stormed the mosque while worshippers were praying, opening fire and causing chaos.

Five individuals lost their lives inside the mosque, and a driver delivering food supplies to the village was also killed. Additionally, one person was reportedly killed in a nearby village.

Security forces, including soldiers and police officers from Ikara town and Palgore area, arrived at the scene around 12:30 am. Unfortunately, by the time they arrived, the bandits had already fled the village.

Mansir Alhassan, the Acting Public Relations Officer of the State Police Command, confirmed the incident and stated that security personnel had been mobilized to search nearby areas to apprehend the perpetrators. Alhassan urged the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities within their communities to local security agencies.

This attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents carried out by bandits in Kaduna State in recent months, highlighting the persistent security challenges faced by the region.

The authorities are intensifying efforts to address the security situation and ensure the safety of residents in Kaduna State. (ILKHA)