Security operatives have foiled an attempted bandit attack on Tauma Village in Bodinga Local Government Area of Sokoto State, recovering five magazines loaded with 40 rounds of live ammunition after a gun battle with the attackers.
The Sokoto State Police Command said the operation followed a distress call received at about 8:30 p.m. on July 25 from a resident who reported that a large number of armed bandits had invaded the community with sophisticated weapons.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, the Divisional Police Officer in Bodinga immediately mobilised tactical units, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), alongside other security personnel, to confront the attackers.
Rufa’i said the joint security team engaged the bandits in a fierce exchange of gunfire, forcing them to retreat into a nearby forest with suspected gunshot wounds.
He said a subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of five magazines containing 40 rounds of live ammunition abandoned by the fleeing suspects.
‘The bandits were overpowered by the superior firepower of the joint security teams and fled into the nearby forest with gunshot wounds,’ the police spokesman said.
He added, ‘A thorough search of the bushes and surrounding area led to the recovery of five magazines containing 40 rounds of live ammunition.’
The command said no casualties were recorded among security personnel or residents during the operation.
Rufa’i disclosed that confidence-building patrols had been intensified in the area to reassure residents and prevent further attacks, while neighbouring police divisions had been placed on alert to track down the fleeing suspects.
‘All neighbouring police divisions have been directed to be on the lookout for any injured hoodlums who may attempt to seek medical attention or hide within their jurisdictions,’ he said.
The police urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements, especially individuals with visible gunshot injuries, to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operations against banditry and other violent crimes across Sokoto State, assuring residents that efforts to protect lives and property would continue.