A deadly bandit attack has left a police officer and two civilians dead in Girkau community, Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed that the assault, carried out by suspected Lakurawa militants, occurred on Monday, causing panic and destruction in the community.
Several residents were injured during the invasion, while an unspecified number of cattle were rustled by the attackers.
According to the police spokesperson, Ahmed Rufai, operatives swiftly responded to a distress call and engaged the assailants in a gun battle, successfully repelling them. However, a police officer lost his life in the line of duty during the exchange.
“It is unfortunate that we lost one of our men. Our personnel responded promptly and were able to repel the attackers, but not without casualties,” Rufai stated.
The attackers also set ablaze two security vehicles belonging to the Nigeria Police Force and the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps.
Eyewitnesses reported that the heavily armed bandits stormed the village, firing indiscriminately at residents and security personnel, forcing many to flee for safety.
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Among the victims were a police officer identified as Hussaini Manyu, an elderly resident, Bala Wakili, and a young herder who was allegedly killed after refusing to surrender his cattle.
Community sources further revealed that a farmer sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving treatment, while a married woman was reportedly assaulted after resisting an attempted sexual attack.
A community leader described the incident as one of the most devastating attacks in recent times, expressing concern over the increasing frequency of such invasions.
Residents also disclosed that warnings had earlier been issued to security agencies regarding suspicious movements in the area before the attack occurred.
They have since called on both the Federal Government and Sokoto State Government to strengthen security presence across Kebbe and neighboring communities to prevent further loss of lives and property.
Security operations in the area have reportedly been intensified as authorities work to restore calm and prevent future attacks.
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