Bandits attack Sokoto village, killing police officer and two others

The Sokoto State Police Command has confirmed that Lakurawa militants attacked Girkau community in Kebbe Local Government Area. This attack left a police officer and two civilians dead. Several others were injured, and many cattle were stolen.

The attack happened on Monday. The bandits also set two security vehicles on fire. These vehicles belonged to the Nigeria Police Force and the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps.

Ahmed Rufai, the command’s spokesman, confirmed the incident to The PUNCH on Tuesday. He said they got a distress call and quickly sent operatives to the community. The police engaged the attackers in a gun battle and managed to push them back.

Rufai said one police officer was killed while two security vehicles were destroyed during the attack.

“It is unfortunate that we lost one of our men during the attack. We received a distress call from the community and immediately mobilised our personnel to the scene. We were able to repel the Lakurawa bandits, but during the exchange of gunfire, one of our officers paid the supreme price.

“They burnt two vehicles, one belonging to the police and the other to the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps.”

He added that the command had increased security operations in the area. He also assured the public that they are committed to protecting lives and property.

Residents said the armed attackers stormed the community and shot at security personnel and villagers. This forced many people to run for safety.

Among those killed was a police officer named Hussaini Manyu, an elderly man called Bala Wakili, and a young herder. The herder was reportedly shot for refusing to give up his cattle to the attackers.

Community sources also revealed that a farmer was shot while working on his land. He is currently receiving treatment at a medical facility. They claimed the attackers assaulted a married woman after she resisted an attempted sexual assault during the invasion.

A community leader, who wanted to remain anonymous for security reasons, described this incident as one of the worst attacks in recent months.

“What happened in Girkau is heartbreaking. We lost a police officer who was defending the community, an elderly man, and a young herder. They also burnt security vehicles and took away many cattle. Our people are living in fear because these attacks are becoming too frequent,” the community leader said.

Another resident, who also wanted to stay anonymous, said the community had warned security agencies about suspicious activities in the area before the attack.

“We had been calling for more security presence because we noticed unusual movements around the area. Unfortunately, our fears have now become reality. Innocent people have been killed, families have been thrown into mourning, and many residents have fled for safety,” the resident said.

The residents are asking the Federal Government and the Sokoto State Government to increase security operations across Kebbe and nearby Local Government Areas to stop further attacks.