Four terrorist kingpins killed in rival gang clash in Kaduna

At least four suspected terrorist kingpins, including a notorious figure identified as Laggu, have been killed in a violent clash between rival armed groups in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Security sources said the incident occurred around Rijana Dam in the southern part of the state. Intelligence reports gathered on June 8 confirmed the deadly confrontation between two competing terrorist factions operating in the Rijana axis, an area long troubled by armed criminal activity.

The clash reportedly left four senior commanders dead, while several other fighters sustained serious injuries. The exact cause of the confrontation has not been fully confirmed, but sources linked it to internal disputes over territory, leadership, and the sharing of resources from criminal operations.

According to intelligence sources, the bodies of the slain commanders were later recovered and taken away for burial. The identities of the remaining victims have not yet been officially confirmed, and authorities are still working to determine the number of injured fighters involved.

Security observers say infighting among terrorist and bandit groups has become increasingly common in parts of north-west Nigeria. Rival factions are often locked in struggles for control of routes, communities, and illegal revenue streams.

The latest clash is believed to have weakened the affected criminal networks, especially with the reported death of key commanders responsible for coordinating operations in the area.

Security forces are closely monitoring the situation to prevent possible retaliatory attacks and to gather intelligence from the incident. Surveillance has also been intensified along the Rijana–Kachia corridor to track fleeing fighters and assess further security risks.

Authorities have reassured residents of ongoing efforts to dismantle armed groups and improve safety across vulnerable communities in southern Kaduna.