Troops repel bandit attacks in Sokoto, rescue abducted farmers

Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma and the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army have successfully repelled separate attacks by suspected Lakurawa terrorists and bandits in Sokoto State, rescuing two kidnapped farmers and preventing what security sources described as potentially devastating attacks.

A senior security source disclosed to our correspondent in Sokoto on Sunday that troops of Operation Fansan Yamma foiled an attack by suspected Lakurawa terrorists on the Magonho community in the Tangaza Local Government Area on June 4.

The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to comment publicly on the operation, said one civilian sustained a gunshot injury during the exchange of fire.

According to him, the troops responded swiftly to distress calls from residents, forcing the attackers to retreat before causing extensive damage.

“The vigilance and rapid response of our troops played a crucial role in saving lives and protecting property. Although one civilian sustained an injury, the situation could have been far worse without the timely intervention of security personnel,” the source said.

In a separate incident on the same day, troops of the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army repelled a bandit attack on a Forward Operating Base in Tidibale village of Isa Local Government Area.

During the operation, two farmers who had been abducted by the criminals were rescued unharmed and evacuated to the General Hospital in Isa for medical attention and assessment.

The source said the troops engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to abandon their mission and flee the area.

“The swift response, professionalism, and courage displayed by our military personnel averted what could have been a tragic incident. Their actions once again demonstrated the commitment of the Nigerian Army to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens,” he said.

The security source disclosed that the attackers suffered significant losses during the encounters, although he did not provide details, noting that ongoing operations were still underway.

“The terrorists suffered a heavy defeat, and our troops are maintaining pressure on them. Operations are continuing to ensure that these criminal elements do not regroup or pose further threats to communities,” he added.

The source called on residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence, stressing that community cooperation remains vital to sustaining recent gains against terrorism and banditry in the region.

“Security is a collective responsibility. We urge members of the public to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies. Such cooperation is essential to achieving lasting peace and security in our communities,” the source said.

He assured residents that security forces had intensified proactive measures across vulnerable communities to protect lives and property and prevent future attacks.