A planned attack by suspected armed bandits on Daraye Village in Wamako Local Government Area of Sokoto State was thwarted by police operatives after a fierce gun battle that left one bandit dead and led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and live ammunition.
The Sokoto State Police Command disclosed that the operation followed a distress call received in the early hours of Saturday, reporting that a large group of heavily armed bandits had invaded the community.
According to the Command, the alert was received at about 1:35 a.m. on July 4, prompting the immediate deployment of operatives from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Village Crime Reduction Unit (VCRU), and other tactical teams to reinforce officers at the Wamakko Divisional Headquarters.
Security operatives reportedly confronted the attackers in a prolonged exchange of gunfire, forcing them to abandon their mission and flee into nearby forests with gunshot wounds.
“Upon arrival, the team aggressively engaged the assailants in a fierce and prolonged gun duel. Demonstrating superior tactical proficiency, the operatives successfully overpowered the bandits, forcing them to abandon their mission and retreat in disarray into the forest, with several bullet wounds,” the statement partly read.
The police said a subsequent sweep of the surrounding area resulted in the neutralisation of one suspected bandit.
Items recovered from the suspect included one AK-47 rifle and one magazine loaded with 28 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.
Following the operation, the Command said confidence-building patrols have been intensified across the area to reassure residents and prevent further attacks. Neighbouring divisional headquarters have also been placed on high alert to intercept fleeing suspects who may be seeking medical treatment.
Commending the officers involved in the operation, Sokoto State Commissioner of Police, CP Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, praised their bravery and professionalism.
“The gallantry displayed by our officers is highly commendable. The Command remains unwavering in its commitment to eradicating banditry and ensuring the safety of lives and property across Sokoto State,” the commissioner said.
He assured residents that the police, working alongside other security agencies, would sustain offensive operations against criminal elements until peace and security are fully restored across the state.
