21 Feared Dead, 37 Kidnapped as Bandits Attack Sokoto Community

At least 21 people are feared dead and 37 others have been abducted after heavily armed bandits attacked Tsamaye community in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

According to residents, the attack lasted from Monday night until the early hours of Tuesday, forcing thousands of people to flee their homes. Two houses were set ablaze, livestock were stolen, and the community was largely deserted.

Witnesses said many villagers attempted to escape by crossing a river after receiving reports of the approaching attackers. However, overloaded boats reportedly capsized, leaving about 18 people feared drowned, while seven others were rescued.

Residents claimed the bandits abducted mostly women and children, including people hiding in nearby farms to avoid previous attacks. Some families said the attackers answered victims' phones and confirmed they had taken 37 hostages.

Community members also accused security forces of failing to respond in time despite receiving early warnings. Local vigilantes said they lacked the equipment needed to confront the attackers and called for the deployment of Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs).

The violence has displaced residents from Tsamaye and several surrounding communities, with many seeking refuge in Sokoto metropolis and neighboring areas.

Sabon Birni Local Government Chairman Ayuba Hashimu confirmed the attack but said casualty figures were still being verified.

The Sokoto State Police Command also confirmed the incident, stating that additional security personnel had been deployed to restore peace and prevent further attacks.

The latest assault underscores the worsening security situation in Sabon Birni, one of the areas most affected by bandit attacks, kidnappings, and mass displacement in northwestern Nigeria.

• Tweet
• Share
• Share
• Share
• Share