By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto
SOKOTO — Operatives of the Sokoto State Police Command have foiled an attempted attack by suspected bandits on Tsabre Village in Isa Local Government Area of the state, recovering two rocket launchers and two empty AK-47 magazines.
The incident occurred at about 1am on Friday, October 2, 2026, when the armed men reportedly stormed the community and opened fire.
The police said tactical teams responded to a distress call and engaged the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to retreat into a nearby forest.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, the Divisional Police Officer in Isa immediately mobilised the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violent Crime Response Unit after receiving information about the attack.
The statement said the tactical teams engaged the attackers in a prolonged gun battle and eventually forced them to flee.
It added that the fleeing attackers reportedly sustained casualties, although the command did not disclose the number.
Following the encounter, the police conducted a search of the surrounding bushes and recovered items allegedly abandoned by the attackers.
They included two rocket launchers, two empty AK-47 magazines, a keypad Tecno phone without a battery, a touch light, an army jungle hat, a sweater cap, five pairs of sandals and a rain jacket.
Commending the operatives, Shaffa praised their prompt response and determination to protect residents.
He said the operation demonstrated the command’s resolve to prevent criminal elements from attacking communities across the state.
“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to protecting the lives and property of the people of Sokoto State,” he said.
The commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with credible information that could assist in preventing attacks and apprehending suspects.
He also appealed to residents to report anyone suspected of sustaining gunshot injuries and seeking medical treatment to the nearest police station or other appropriate security authorities.
The command assured residents that its tactical teams would sustain operations against banditry and other violent crimes, particularly around vulnerable communities in the state.
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