Heavy casualties in Sokoto community as Nigerian soldiers confront bandits

Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA have killed several bandits following a fierce gun battle in Sabon Garin Kwargaba village, Wurno Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

According to sources, the confrontation happened around 11:30 p.m. on Oct. 7, when a large number of armed bandits stormed the village and opened fire indiscriminately.

Soldiers stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) were quickly mobilised to the area to counter the attack.

Security analyst Zagozola Makama reported that sources confirmed the troops engaged the attackers in a prolonged exchange of gunfire, forcing the bandits to retreat into the forest with heavy losses.

“Several of the bandits were neutralised while others escaped with gunshot injuries. Unfortunately, one soldier and a woman from the community lost their lives in the encounter,” he said.

Another soldier who sustained gunshot wounds was taken to the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto, where he is said to be responding to treatment.

Sources added that additional reinforcements have been deployed to the area to forestall further attacks and maintain peace.

“An extensive bush combing operation is ongoing to track down the fleeing bandits and ensure lasting security in the area,” the sources added.