Police stop bandit attack in Sokoto, recover 43 stolen sheep

Operatives of the Sokoto State Police Command have stopped a bandit attack in Anada Village, Binji Local Government Area. They recovered all 43 sheep that the attackers stole during the incident.

The command reported that the attack happened around 9:00 pm on Thursday. Armed bandits invaded the village, shooting randomly before taking 43 sheep from residents.

A statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, said the Divisional Police Officer in Binji quickly put together a combined tactical team. This team included members from the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and the Viable Crime Response Unit to chase the suspects.

“The operatives quickly blocked all escape routes and engaged the bandits in a tough gun battle. The bandits could not handle the police's firepower and left the stolen sheep behind. They ran into the nearby forest,” the statement said.

The police confirmed that they recovered all 43 sheep unharmed and returned them. They added that there were no injuries or deaths among police officers or community members.

The command said that tactical operatives are continuing a coordinated search in nearby forests. They aim to catch the fleeing suspects and prevent more attacks in the area.

The Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, praised the officers for their quick response. He commended the Binji DPO and his team for their bravery and professionalism.

“The Sokoto State Police Command is committed to protecting lives and property in the state. We encourage the public to keep giving timely and reliable information to help with ongoing security efforts,” the commissioner said.

Communities in Binji and other areas of Sokoto State have faced many attacks by armed bandits in the past years. This has led to stronger joint security operations to fight crime and bring back peace in the affected regions.