After gunmen killed five people in Chikun local government area, Governor Nasir el-Rufai has insisted that his government will not negotiate with bandits, just as he vowed to arrest and prosecute anyone found negotiating on behalf of government.
Gunmen killed five people and injured one in Katarma Village, Chikun local government area of Kaduna state. One person was also injured following youth clashes in Atuku village, Jema’a local government area.
Governor el-Rufai, according to a statement signed by Kaduna state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, on Sunday, said he has not appointed any intermediaries to negotiate with bandits on his behalf.
“The attention of the Kaduna state government under the leadership of Governor Nasir El-Rufai has been drawn to reports in the media that it has appointed representatives to interface with bandits on its behalf. The Kaduna state government hereby clarifies firmly that such intermediaries have never been appointed.
“The position of the Kaduna state government remains the same: the Government will not negotiate with or pay ransoms to bandits. Any person who claims to do so in any capacity, if found, will be prosecuted accordingly. Citizens are urged to report the details of any persons posing as official government negotiators to the Kaduna State Security Operations Room on 09034000060 and 08170189999, or email [email protected].
“Security agencies have reported that armed bandits attacked Katarma village in Chikun local government area. Five persons were killed in the attack, listed as: Samson Danladi, Luka Gajere, Amos Ali, Titus Baba, Damali Musa. One person was injured, and is receiving treatment in a neighbouring state.
“In another incident, troops under the auspices of Operation Safe Haven reported a clash between some youths in Atuku village, Jema’a LGA. During the clash, one Afiniki Thomas was attacked by two youths, and sustained a deep gash to the forehead. One of the assailants, Sani Safiyanu was arrested for profiling and investigation. The injured victim was rushed to hospital for treatment.
“Furthermore, troops of Operation Safe Haven while on patrol discovered the decomposing corpse of one Paul Simon, a resident of Yagbak village in Zangon Kataf LGA. The deceased was reported missing on 24th March 2021. The corpse has since been buried.
“Receiving the reports, Governor Nasir el-Rufai prayed for the repose of those slain, and sent condolences to their families, while wishing the injured a quick recovery. The Governor also tasked security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the clash in Atulu village in Jema’a local government area. Investigations into the incident are in progress,” he said.
