The Sokoto State government has refuted reports alleging killings by bandits in Tofa village, Rabah Local government during the week.
The Chairman of Rabah Local Government Area, Alhaji Yusuf Mohammed Rabah, however
confirmed that bandits, believed to have come from Alikiru in Sububu Forest of Maradun Local Government Area in Zamfara State passed through Dankare and Dalijan villages before arriving at Tofa in the early hours of Wednesday, where they shot sporadically.
He explained that a combined team of security personnel comprising the Army, Police, Community Guard Corps, and Vigilante confronted the attackers in a fierce exchange of gunfire.
During the encounter, two villagers sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
“One of them has since been discharged, while the other is still receiving treatment due to the severity of the injury he sustained,” the Chairman said.
He added that the Local Government Council is covering all medical expenses for the two victims.
The Chairman also disclosed that two female residents of Tofa initially reported missing were later confirmed to have been abducted by the bandits.
He noted that the attackers abandoned the livestock they had earlier rustled as a result of the heavy exchange of fire with security personnel.
Alhaji Rabah dismissed reports claiming that many people were killed and abducted during the attack, describing it as false and misleading.
He commended the military, police, community guards, and vigilante groups for their swift response, which helped repel the attackers.
The Chairman assured residents of the administration’s continued commitment to strengthening security in Rabah LGA.
He urged communities to support government and security agencies with reliable information, especially regarding informants living among them.
He appealed to the public to refrain from politicizing or making insensitive comments on security issues due to their delicate nature.
He also commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for the special attention and support he continues to give to local government areas affected by banditry in the state.
Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie
