Two soldiers from the 312 Battalion, stationed at Kalapanzi Barracks in Kaduna, were ambushed by armed assailants in Babar Saura on April 2, 2025.
The attack, which occurred at approximately 4:41 PM, resulted in the death of one soldier and the injury of another.
Security expert Zagazola Makama reported that intelligence sources confirmed the attackers—three heavily armed men—opened fire on the soldiers. Corporal James (last name withheld) was killed in the attack, while Private Ibrahim Bazalla sustained injuries. The assailants also made away with two AK-47 rifles before fleeing.
Military Launches Manhunt for Attackers
Following the ambush, Private Bazalla was rushed to the 44 Army Reference Hospital for treatment, while Corporal James was pronounced dead upon arrival.
In response, a coordinated operation involving the military, police, and local vigilante groups tracked the attackers to Degel2 in Kaduna. Upon being cornered, the assailants abandoned a silver Toyota Corolla and hijacked a white Toyota Venza from a civilian, Abdullahi Mohammed, in Badarawa, Kaduna. Security forces are actively pursuing the suspects and working to recover the stolen vehicle.
Police Headquarters Attacked in Enugu
In a separate incident, the Awgu Divisional Police Headquarters in Enugu State came under attack on March 24, 2025, by unidentified gunmen. The assailants killed Police Constable Akpa Emmanuel and looted the station, seizing weapons, including an AK-47 rifle and two riot guns.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, has heightened tensions in Awgu town, prompting a heavy security presence. Law enforcement agencies, including the Police Mobile Force (PMF) and the Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU), have since been deployed to the area under the directive of Enugu’s new Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa.
Escalating Security Threats
These attacks highlight ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, particularly in Kaduna and Enugu. While authorities are intensifying efforts to track and apprehend the perpetrators, the incidents serve as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by armed groups targeting security forces across the country.
As security agencies ramp up their response, citizens remain on edge, awaiting decisive action to curb the rising wave of violent attacks.
