LERE, Nigeria — Fear has gripped residents of Ramin-Kura Ward in Lere Local Government Area, Kaduna State, after an arsonist set fire to three residential houses on Sunday night, August 2, 2026, using the blaze as a distraction to rob neighboring homes.
The attack targeted the compound of local resident Alhaji Idris Gatari before spreading to adjacent structures. According to eyewitnesses, the suspect deliberately ignited the buildings and waited for the community to react. As neighbors rushed to extinguish the flames, the perpetrator broke into nearby homes, stealing large sums of cash and valuable personal belongings.
While no casualties or fatalities were reported, the fire destroyed property estimated at millions of naira, including electronics, clothing, and vital documents, leaving the affected families displaced.
Community members reported identifying the suspect during the chaos, but the individual fled the scene before residents or security personnel could detain him.
“The community no longer feels safe,” said one local resident, speaking on condition of anonymity. “We are calling on the police and security agencies to immediately launch a manhunt and arrest this suspect before he strikes again.”
Local authorities have been urged to step up patrols in the area as displaced families seek temporary shelter following the destruction.
