Sokoto Attack: 5 Killed as Bandits Storm Communities

SOKOTO — A fresh Sokoto bandit attack has left five people dead and three others injured after suspected armed bandits reportedly stormed Girkau and neighbouring communities in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State on Thursday evening.

The attackers reportedly moved through several settlements, sending residents fleeing for their lives while also rustling cattle, according to residents and security sources.

The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the death toll and injuries on Friday.

Police spokesperson DSP Ahmed Rufai said five people were killed while three others sustained injuries in the attack.

The police spokesman also said security operatives were still working to establish the full circumstances of the incident, including reports of possible abductions.

Residents described a terrifying scene as the attackers reportedly entered the communities and opened fire.

The violence reportedly affected Girkau, Jabga and Dukura, with residents forced to seek safety as the attackers operated in the area.

A resident, Usman Girkau, said the incident happened while residents were preparing for afternoon prayers.

The attackers reportedly spent hours in the area before leaving with livestock.

Four of the victims were identified by a security source as Dogo Dan Barkeji, 50; Baban Gida Abdullahi, 28; Abubakar Dan Yaki, 50; and Abubakar Aliyu, 35.

The fifth victim was reportedly an unidentified resident of Dukura.

The three injured victims were identified as Jamilu Abubakar, Dahiru Yahaya and Adamu Mohammed. They were reportedly taken to General Hospital, Tambuwal, for medical treatment.

However, authorities have yet to publicly provide a complete account of what happened during the attack or confirm all reports emerging from the affected communities.

The incident comes amid growing security concerns in parts of Sokoto, where rural communities have continued to face attacks linked to banditry, cattle rustling and abductions.

Earlier reports also indicated that suspected bandits had demanded a ₦40 million levy from residents of Kebbe town and threatened further action over the alleged unpaid demand.

The latest Sokoto bandit attack has intensified concerns among residents over the ability of communities in affected areas to protect themselves from repeated attacks.

Police said investigations and security operations were continuing.

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