Security Forces Foil Bandit Operation in Sokoto, Rescue 32 Victims

Sokoto State Police Command announced a significant breakthrough in its anti-banditry efforts, rescuing 32 kidnapped individuals and thwarting a major criminal operation. The coordinated security response occurred in the Maikujera Village area of Rabah Local Government, a region bordering Zamfara State.

Acting on credible intelligence, the Divisional Police Officer in Rabah mobilized tactical units, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violent Crime Reaction Unit, alongside troops from a nearby Army Forward Operating Base. They established blocking positions along escape routes, intercepting a heavily armed bandit gang moving with victims and rustled livestock.

A fierce gun battle ensued, with security forces overwhelming the bandits through superior firepower and coordinated maneuvers. The attackers retreated into nearby forests, abandoning their captives and livestock. A subsequent search located all 32 victims, who were evacuated for medical attention and trauma care before family reunification.

Despite the successful rescue, the bandits killed four residents during their initial assault. Sokoto State Commissioner of Police, CP Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, expressed sympathy to the bereaved families and vowed to track down and apprehend the fleeing criminals, reaffirming the command's commitment to dismantling banditry networks in the state.

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The Police Command reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.