The Sokoto State Police Command says it has recorded breakthroughs in its fight against banditry, including the repelling of coordinated attacks and 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, where he outlined 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.
According to him, 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 exhibits,” he stated.
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, he said, included locally made firearms, an AK-47 magazine, military camouflage, and substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
“All the suspects have been charged in court accordingly. These operations are part of our sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks,” he added.
In another development, the police boss said operatives arrested a suspected bandit informant and logistics supplier identified as Aminu Meroba.
He explained that the suspect 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 from a terrorist group with the intention of selling them and returning the proceeds,” Shaffa said, adding that investigations were ongoing.
When asked about concerns over increasing insecurity in Achida and nearby communities, citing recent attacks, displacement of residents, and alleged operational challenges such as inadequate vehicles and manpower.
One of the journalists noted:
“There are serious concerns about logistics, including a lack of vehicles, fuel, and personnel, which is affecting response time in some areas.”
When asked about the absence of a police outpost in a vulnerable community, describing it as a critical gap in security coverage.
Responding, Shaffa acknowledged the concerns and assured that the Command had already intensified deployment to the affected areas.
“We are aware of the situation in Achida, Gurno, and other areas. We have men on the ground and are deploying more tactical teams. That axis is now a priority,” he said.
He added that the police were working closely with the state government, other security agencies, and community stakeholders to improve security.
“Very soon, we will clear those areas. We are strengthening intelligence gathering and community engagement to address the challenges,” he assured.
The commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and support the police with credible information.