The Sokoto State Police Command has confirmed the killing of five people and the injury of three others following a bandit attack on communities in Kebbe Local Government Area of the state.
The attackers struck on Thursday evening, targeting Girkau community and other settlements in Girkau Ward. Residents also reported cases of abduction and cattle rustling during the invasion.
Police spokesperson in the state, DSP Ahmed Rufai, confirmed the incident during a telephone interview with our correspondent on Friday.
“Five persons were killed, three others were injured, while unspecified animals were rustled in the attack.”
Rufai said security operatives were still working to establish further details, particularly the number of people abducted by the attackers.
“We are still gathering information on the incident, including the number of people who may have been abducted. Further details will be made available as they emerge.”
A resident, Abubakar, said the gunmen also attacked Dukura and Jabga communities in Girkau Ward, where one person was reportedly killed in each settlement.
He said several residents, including boys and girls, were taken away by the attackers.
“They came in large numbers and moved from one part of the community to another. People were running into the bush for safety while the attackers went from house to house.”
Abubakar further alleged that a vigilante member was abducted after the attackers seized his locally made firearm.
Another resident said the bandits spent several hours in Girkau community before leaving with a large number of cattle.
“They spent hours in the community and moved around freely. They eventually left with many cattle. The residents are now living in fear because nobody knows when they may return,” the resident said.
The latest attack has heightened concerns over worsening insecurity in Kebbe LGA, where communities have reportedly suffered repeated attacks, kidnappings and cattle rustling.
It also came days after reports emerged that bandits allegedly imposed a N40 million levy on residents of Kebbe town. The police, however, did not confirm the alleged demand while commenting on the latest attack.
Rufai said security agencies remained committed to protecting residents and responding to threats in the affected communities.
“The police and other security agencies remain committed to protecting the lives and property of the people. We will continue to respond to security threats and work with communities to ensure their safety,” he said.
