The Sokoto State Police Command has confirmed a bandits’ attack on communities in Shagari Local Government Area of the state, with a police inspector reportedly killed during the incident.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Ahmed Rufai, confirmed the attack to our correspondent on Tuesday, saying the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Shagari had briefed the command on the incident.
Rufai, however, said the command was still gathering details to establish what transpired and determine the casualties.
He said, “I just spoke with the DPO in charge of Shagari now, who confirmed the attack on some communities in the local government.
“We are still on it. I cannot give details now until I gather my information about the incident. I will get back to you on it.”
The confirmation followed reports of the movement of armed bandits around farmlands and communities in the area, particularly towards Sanyin Nawal village.
A resident of Sanyin Nawal, Hassan Sahabi, had earlier raised the alarm in a social media post, calling for prayers for residents as the armed men reportedly moved through the community.
He wrote, “We are seeking for your prayers to God for His protection. Bandits are currently in my community in Sanyin Nawal. Please pray for us.”
A separate account of the incident said the bandits reportedly moved around Shagari farmlands in the morning before heading towards Sanyin Nawal, where they allegedly stopped some vehicles and robbed travellers.
The attackers were also said to have spent time around a nearby pond before allegedly eating food and drinking Maltina, while a motorcycle was reportedly set ablaze before they proceeded through surrounding villages.
The account further stated that the bandits encountered a passenger vehicle while returning in the evening around Maghrib and opened fire.
A police officer identified as Inspector Isah Muhammad Girkau was reportedly hit by a bullet and died from his injuries.
However, the police command has yet to officially confirm the identity of the deceased officer or provide details of the circumstances surrounding his death.
The incident has renewed concerns over the vulnerability of rural communities and roads in parts of Sokoto State to attacks and movements by armed groups.
