At least 11 people have been killed in separate bandit attacks on communities in Rabah and Sabon Birni Local Government Areas of Sokoto State, raising fresh concerns over the worsening security situation in the region.
The deadliest attack occurred in Maikujera village, Rabah LGA, where seven people, including two operatives of the Sokoto Community Guard Corps (SCGC), lost their lives after heavily armed bandits invaded the community. Three women were also reportedly killed during an attack on nearby Angamba village.
Security sources said the attackers arrived on more than 30 motorcycles, firing indiscriminately at residents before abducting an unspecified number of people and fleeing the area.
An operative of the Sokoto Community Guard Corps said two members of the outfit died while attempting to repel the attackers. He also alleged that local security personnel face operational challenges due to inadequate logistics, including limited ammunition and the absence of armored vehicles.
The latest assault came less than 24 hours after another attack on Unguwan Lalle in Sabon Birni LGA, where four residents were killed and several others injured. According to residents, the attackers, who were reportedly dressed in military-style uniforms, looted homes and shops, rustled livestock, and opened fire on villagers trying to escape.
Some residents said they initially mistook the gunmen for security personnel because of their uniforms. They also claimed the attackers operated for several hours before fleeing.
Police authorities confirmed casualties in the affected area, noting that investigations are ongoing to establish the full details of the incidents.
Inside Sokoto State:
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Meanwhile, the Sokoto State Government has ordered the indefinite closure of all public primary and secondary schools outside the state capital due to the deteriorating security situation.
The directive exempts schools in Sokoto North and Sokoto South Local Government Areas, as well as selected schools in Wamakko, Dange Shuni, and Kware.
State officials said the decision was taken to safeguard students, teachers, and other school personnel as insecurity continues to threaten several communities across the state. The affected schools will remain closed until further notice.
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