Police foil bandit attack, recover 43 rustled sheep in Sokoto

The Sokoto State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling banditry, saying criminal groups will not be allowed to operate freely in the state after officers foiled an attack and recovered 43 rustled sheep in Binji Local Government Area.

The operation, carried out by officers from the Binji Police Division on Thursday night, followed an attack on Anada Village by heavily armed bandits who reportedly stormed the community, fired gunshots to scare residents and made away with 43 sheep.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, said the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Binji immediately mobilised tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and the Viable Crime Response Unit (VCRU), after receiving a distress call.

The police teams blocked possible escape routes and pursued the attackers, leading to a gun battle.

According to the statement, the bandits abandoned the stolen livestock and fled into a nearby forest as security operatives closed in on them.

The command confirmed that all 43 sheep were recovered and returned, while no residents or security personnel were injured during the operation.

Police said tactical teams have continued combing the surrounding forests to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.

Commending the officers for their swift response, the Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, CP Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, praised the Binji Divisional Police Officer and the tactical teams for their courage and professionalism.

He said their actions reflected the Command’s determination to confront criminal elements across the state.

The police commissioner also reassured residents that the Command would continue to protect lives and property.

“We remain committed to safeguarding lives and property across Sokoto State,” Shaffa said.

He urged residents to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information that would strengthen the fight against banditry and other violent crimes.