At least 13 people have been killed and several others abducted after suspected bandits attacked a wedding ceremony in Kahir village, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The incident occurred late Sunday night when heavily armed assailants stormed the venue, opening fire on guests gathered for the celebration. Witnesses said the attackers operated for nearly an hour without resistance.

A resident, Shehu Bala, disclosed that the gunmen arrived at about 11:47 p.m. and began shooting indiscriminately inside the wedding hall, triggering chaos among attendees. He added that two of his friends sustained gunshot injuries during the attack.

Injured victims were initially taken to Kagarko General Hospital, while those with critical wounds were transferred to facilities in Kaduna metropolis for advanced treatment.

A community leader confirmed that 13 fatalities had been recorded, noting that the victims have since been buried. He added that efforts are ongoing to ascertain the number of abducted persons.

The attackers reportedly extended their operation beyond the wedding venue, looting nearby shops and carting away food items, provisions, and drugs from a local chemist.

“The entire community was thrown into panic due to the heavy gunfire, forcing many residents to flee into nearby bushes,” the community leader said.

Police authorities in Kagarko confirmed the incident, with the Kaduna State Police Command spokesperson, Hassan Mansur, stating that investigations are ongoing and a comprehensive report will be released after details, particularly the number of abductees, are verified.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, alongside a serving senator, reportedly visited injured victims receiving treatment in Kagarko.