The Sokoto State Police Command says it has recorded breakthroughs in its fight against banditry, including the repelling of coordinated attacks and the recovery of arms and ammunition across parts of the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Hassan Shaffa, disclosed this on Friday while addressing newsmen at the Command Headquarters in Sokoto, outlining recent operational successes and ongoing security measures.
“The Command remains resolute, proactive, and strategically positioned to confront and decisively neutralize all forms of criminal activities within the state,” Shaffa said.
The CP stated that on April 8, police operatives, working with the military and local vigilantes, foiled an attack by armed bandits on Kwarangamba and Gaya villages in Sabon Birni Local Government Area. The joint team engaged the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to retreat with injuries.
During the pursuit, the bandits abandoned a sack containing 167 rounds of live ammunition, which was recovered and registered as an exhibit.
Shaffa said the command also carried out coordinated raids on criminal hideouts in Tambuwal, Kware, and Goronyo local government areas on April 15, leading to the arrest of three suspects. Items recovered included locally made firearms, an AK-47 magazine, military camouflage, and substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
In another development, the police boss said operatives arrested a suspected bandit informant and logistics supplier identified as Aminu Meroba, who was intercepted along the Tangaza axis with four cows believed to have been rustled by a terrorist group. The suspect confessed to receiving the animals with the intention of selling them and returning the proceeds to the group.
When asked about concerns over increasing insecurity in Achida and nearby communities, Shaffa acknowledged the concerns and assured that the command had intensified deployment to the affected areas, adding that the axis is now a priority. He urged residents to remain vigilant and support the police with credible information.
