Police foil bandit attack in Sokoto, neutralise one assailant

Security operatives in Sokoto State have foiled a coordinated attack by suspected bandits on Illela village in Achida town and Kwargaba hamlet, killing one of the assailants during a gun battle.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday after security agencies received a distress call reporting simultaneous attacks on the two communities.

Police spokesperson, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, said operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, working with other tactical teams, were deployed to the affected areas.

He said the operatives engaged the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to retreat after sustaining casualties.

“One of the suspects was neutralised, while others fled with gunshot wounds into a nearby forest,” the police said.

The police, however, confirmed that a local vigilante member was killed during the attack before the arrival of security personnel.

Authorities said a manhunt has been launched to track down the fleeing suspects, with ongoing operations in surrounding areas.

Residents were advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

Police foil bandit attack in Sokoto, neutralise one assailant