Sokoto Police Repel Bandit Attacks, Recover 167 Rounds Of Ammunition

The Sokoto State Police Command said it has recorded fresh gains in its fight against banditry, including foiled attacks, arrests, and recovery of arms and ammunition across several communities.

The Commissioner of Police, Hassan Shaffa, disclosed this on Friday while briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Sokoto.

“The Command remains resolute, proactive, and strategically positioned to confront and decisively neutralise all forms of criminal activities within the state,” he said.

Shaffa revealed that on April 8, police operatives, in collaboration with the military and local vigilantes, repelled a coordinated attack by armed bandits on Kwarangamba and Gaya villages in Sabon Birni Local Government Area.

According to him, the joint security team engaged the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to flee with injuries.

“During the pursuit, the bandits abandoned a sack containing 167 rounds of live ammunition, which was recovered and registered as exhibits,” he added.

The police chief further disclosed that on April 15, operatives carried out coordinated raids on suspected criminal hideouts in Tambuwal, Kware, and Goronyo, leading to the arrest of three suspects.

Items recovered during the operations include locally fabricated firearms, an AK-47 magazine, military camouflage, and substances suspected to be Indian hemp.

“All the suspects have been charged in court accordingly. These operations are part of our sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks,” Shaffa said.

In a separate operation, the commissioner said police arrested a suspected bandit informant and logistics supplier, identified as Aminu Meroba, along the Tangaza axis.

He said the suspect was intercepted with four cows believed to have been rustled by a terrorist group.

“The suspect confessed to receiving the animals from a terrorist group with the intention of selling them and returning the proceeds,” Shaffa stated, adding that investigations were ongoing.

Addressing concerns over rising insecurity in Achida and neighbouring communities, including reports of attacks, displacement, and operational challenges, the police boss acknowledged gaps in logistics such as inadequate vehicles, fuel, and manpower.

Responding to questions on the absence of a police outpost in vulnerable areas, Shaffa assured that the Command had intensified deployment to affected locations.

“We are aware of the situation in Achida, Gurno, and other areas. We have men on the ground and are deploying more tactical teams. That axis is now a priority,” he said.

He added that the police were working closely with the state government, other security agencies, and community stakeholders to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve response.

“Very soon, we will clear those areas. We are strengthening intelligence gathering and community engagement to address the challenges,” he assured.

The commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information to aid ongoing operations.