The District Head of Maganda in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Alhaji Hussaini Sulaiman, has been killed following a dispute at an illegal gold mining site in the community.

Security sources said the incident occurred on Thursday and prompted a response from troops of Operation Fasan Yamma after reports of the killing were received at about 2:33 p.m.

According to the sources, the traditional ruler was allegedly shot dead by a suspected bandit identified as Shuaibu during an altercation at the mining site in Maganda.

Preliminary findings indicated that a disagreement broke out between the district head and the suspect before the confrontation escalated into violence.

The sources disclosed that Sulaiman sustained fatal gunshot wounds during the incident and died at the scene.

His remains were later evacuated to Birnin Gwari, where he was buried in accordance with Islamic rites.

Security agencies have launched an investigation into the killing, while efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the suspect.

The incident has renewed concerns about the activities of armed criminal groups operating around illegal mining sites in parts of Kaduna State, particularly in Birnin Gwari, a region that has faced persistent security challenges in recent years.

Residents and stakeholders have repeatedly expressed concerns over the nexus between illegal mining activities and insecurity, with authorities continuing efforts to curb criminal operations and restore stability in affected communities.

The killing of the traditional ruler is expected to heighten calls for stricter regulation of mining activities and strengthened security measures across the local government area.