Police repel bandit attack in Sokoto, recover ammunition

The Sokoto State Police Command said that, after receiving a distress call that a large number of armed bandits were attacking a community, it mobilised tactical teams, including operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violence Crime Response Unit, to the scene and eventually foiled the bandits’ attack on Tauma Village in Bodinga Local Government Area of the state.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufai, a search of the surrounding bushes led to the recovery of five magazines containing 40 rounds of live ammunition.

The statement said the joint security team engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to retreat into a nearby forest with suspected gunshot wounds. It added that no casualties were recorded among security personnel or residents during the operation.

The command further disclosed that confidence-building patrols had been intensified in the area to reassure residents and prevent further attacks.

It also said neighbouring police divisions had been placed on alert and directed to watch out for injured suspects who might seek medical treatment or attempt to hide within their jurisdictions.

The police urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious persons, particularly anyone with visible gunshot wounds, to the nearest police station or other security agencies.