Police foil bandit attack on Sokoto village, recover live ammunition

The Sokoto State Police Command has foiled an attack by suspected bandits on Tauma Village in Bodinga Local Government Area after swiftly deploying tactical teams following a distress call.

The command disclosed that operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violence Crime Response Unit were mobilised to the community after receiving reports that a large number of armed bandits had invaded the area.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufai, said the joint security team engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to flee into a nearby forest with suspected gunshot wounds.

According to the statement, a search of the surrounding bushes led to the recovery of five magazines loaded with 40 rounds of live ammunition.

The police said no casualties were recorded among security personnel or residents during the operation.

The command added that confidence-building patrols had been intensified across the area to reassure residents and prevent any further attacks.

It also disclosed that neighbouring police divisions had been placed on alert and directed to monitor for injured suspects who might seek medical attention or attempt to hide within their jurisdictions.

The police urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious individuals, especially anyone with visible gunshot wounds, to the nearest police station or other security agencies.