Bandits abduct several IDPs in Sokoto

Suspected bandits have abducted scores of internally displaced persons (IDPs) who had just returned to their communities during fresh attacks on Gasalodi and Tungar Barke villages in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State on Wednesday, July 15.

The attack occurred around 11 a.m. as residents, who had been taking refuge in nearby Jabo town after earlier attacks, attempted to resettle in their villages.

Sources said the assailants also rustled an unspecified number of livestock before fleeing with the victims.

A resident of Jabo, who confirmed the incident to Daily Trust, said the affected villagers had returned home only a day earlier after spending several weeks in displacement.

“They returned yesterday, but unfortunately some of them were abducted this morning. The bandits also carted away their livestock,” the source said

He added that the attackers had earlier threatened to return if the villagers attempted to resettle.

“They warned the residents that they would come back once they returned, and that is exactly what happened,” he said.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, said he had yet to receive a briefing on the incident but assured our correspondent that he would provide further details once available.