Police confirm five deaths in attack on Sokoto communities

The Sokoto State Police Command has confirmed the deaths of people who were k!lled in a bandit attack on communities in Kebbe Local Government Area of the state.

The attack, which also left three people injured, occurred on Thursday evening, September 3,  in the Girkau community and other settlements within Girkau Ward, with residents also reporting abductions and the rustling of cattle.

Confirming the incident in a telephone conversation with our correspondent on Friday, the spokesman for the command, DSP Ahmed Rufai, said, “Five persons were killed, three others were injured, while unspecified animals were rustled in the attack.”

Rufai said the command was still gathering information about the incident, including the number of residents who may have been abducted.

He said, “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.”

The attack comes amid security concerns in Kebbe LGA, where residents have reportedly faced attacks, abductions and cattle rustling.

It also occurred days after Kebbe town was reportedly subjected to a N40m levy allegedly imposed by bandits on Tuesday afternoon.

However, the police did not confirm the alleged levy in its latest statement on the attack.

Rufai assured residents that security agencies remained committed to safeguarding lives and property in the area.

“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.