Bandits Attack Sokoto Communities, Police Inspector Reportedly Killed

The Sokoto State Police Command has confirmed an attack by suspected bandits on communities in Shagari Local Government Area, with reports indicating that a police inspector was killed during the incident. The command’s spokesperson, DSP Ahmed Rufai, confirmed the attack on Tuesday, saying the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Shagari had briefed the command on the development. Rufai, however, said the police were still gathering information to establish the circumstances of the attack and determine the number of casualties. The confirmation followed reports of armed bandits moving through farmlands and communities in the area, particularly around Sanyin Nawal village. A resident, Hassan Sahabi, had earlier raised an alarm on social media, calling for prayers and protection for residents as armed men reportedly moved through the community.

A separate account of the incident alleged that the attackers moved around Shagari farmlands in the morning before heading towards Sanyin Nawal, where they reportedly stopped vehicles and robbed travellers. The bandits were also said to have spent time around a nearby pond before allegedly eating and drinking, while a motorcycle was reportedly set ablaze as they moved through surrounding villages. The account further stated that the attackers later encountered a passenger vehicle while returning in the evening around Maghrib and opened fire. A police officer identified in the account as Inspector Isah Muhammad Girkau was reportedly struck by a bullet and died from his injuries. However, the police command has not officially confirmed the identity of the deceased officer or provided details of the circumstances surrounding his reported death. The incident has raised fresh concerns over the vulnerability of rural communities and roads in parts of Sokoto State to attacks and movements by armed groups.

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