Bandits Kill Several Residents, Kidnap Others in Fresh Attacks Across Five Sokoto Communities

Several residents were killed, many injured, and an undisclosed number abducted as armed bandits struck multiple communities in the Sabon-Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

A security source in Northwest Nigeria, Bakatsine, shared the incident on X on Friday, describing it as “SAD NEWS.”

He stated, “Last night (Thursday), armed bandits carried out coordinated attacks on Yar Bulutu, Gajit, Alkalawa, Garin Magaji, and Damba communities, all in Sabon-Birni LGA. Multiple residents were killed, several others injured, and a number abducted.”

Residents fear the attacks may be linked to recent developments in neighbouring Zamfara State. The source noted that “recent arrangements in Shinkafi LGA, particularly the reported truce with bandits under the Bello Turji faction, may be contributing to heightened attacks across Isa and Sabon-Birni LGAs in Sokoto State. These concerns are based on community observations and are yet to be officially confirmed.”

Meanwhile, in Kwara State, panic erupted in Woro community, Kaiama LGA, after bandits launched a midnight raid.

According to reports, the attackers struck around 2:15 am under the cover of darkness. The heavily armed bandits faced a swift response from Nigerian Army troops, leading to an “intense and prolonged” gun battle between 3am and 4am.

Residents were forced to stay indoors in fear, but the intervention of security forces prevented further escalation. Calm gradually returned by dawn, with residents expressing gratitude for the protection of lives and property.

Local leaders also praised the bravery and quick response of military personnel and community heads, who were instrumental in containing the attack.

As of press time, authorities have yet to release official figures on casualties, arrests, or the extent of damage. Security operatives are continuing follow-up operations to track fleeing attackers.

In a separate incident reported Thursday, suspected kidnappers abducted a trader and former PDP ward chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Sabi Sise, in Boriya–Shiya Ward, Baruten LGA, Kwara State.