From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Dokan Karji Community, in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, has called on the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, and the Federal Government to urgently deploy military forces to help halt the incessant kidnappings and killings of their kinsmen by bandits.
The community, in a press statement made available to newsmen through its youth leader, Aminu Khalid, said the constant attacks have further exacerbated the insecurity in the region, leaving residents in fear for their lives, prompting many to flee to safer areas.
The community’s appeal came in the wake of devastating attacks that left over 14 villages overrun by bandits.
According to Khalid, the sad incident has left their communities vulnerable to incessant attacks by bandits over the years.
“Dokan Karji is the largest community in the area, and over 50 people have so far been killed and over 170 abducted from April to date, while others are still in their custody for over six months with more than N700 million paid as ransom.
“Dokan Karji, a peaceful farming community where economic activities thrive, has now become a hotspot for bandit activity.
“The absence of military protection has emboldened the criminals, leading to frequent kidnappings, killings, and the displacement of hundreds of residents.
“The recent attack on the farmers is a stark reminder of the deteriorating security situation in our area.
“Many families have continued to endure several tragedies at the hands of these bandits, leading to the loss of their loved ones.
“The only hope that remained for the community to survive was for the military and the Federal Government to act swiftly.
“We are appealing for the Chief of Defence Staff to come to the rescue of our endangered communities that have suffered brutal attacks and constant killings of our kinsmen.”. The statement said.
However, the Dokan Karji community commended the Sector 7 Commander, LT. Col. Osuake, for his efforts in combating bandit activities in the area.
“Col. Osuake has fought gallantly in trying to restore peace in our communities, and he deserves our commendation at all times,” Khalid added.