Sokoto Police Command Reports Progress Against Banditry
The Sokoto State Police Command has announced significant advancements in its ongoing battle against banditry, highlighting successful repulsions of organized criminal attacks, as well as the recovery of firearms and ammunition throughout the region.
Police Commissioner Outlines Recent Operations
Commissioner of Police, Hassan Shafa, shared these developments during a press briefing on Friday at the command headquarters in Sokoto. He emphasized the command’s commitment to a proactive and strategic approach to combatting various forms of crime within the state.
Successful Defense Against Armed Attacks
Shafa reported that on April 8, police personnel collaborated with military units and local vigilante groups to prevent armed bandits from attacking Kwarangamba and Gaya villages in the Sabon-Birni local government area. He noted that this joint task force engaged the attackers in a gunfight, inflicting injuries and compelling them to retreat.
Criminal Evidence Recovered During Pursuit
During the pursuit, the fleeing bandits left behind a bag containing 167 live rounds, which has been documented as evidence in the ongoing investigation. Shafa highlighted that these operations are part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal networks operating in the area.
Coordinated Raids Yield Arrests
On April 15, the command executed coordinated raids on criminal hideouts located in Tambuwal, Kwale, and Goronyo local government areas. These operations resulted in the arrest of three suspects and the recovery of various illicit items, including locally manufactured firearms, AK-47 magazines, military camouflage uniforms, and a substance believed to be Indian hemp.
Arrests of Key Suspects and Ongoing Investigations
Additionally, a senior police official disclosed that operatives apprehended a logistics contractor identified as Aminu Merova, who was acting as an informant for robbery suspects. Merova was captured along the Tangaza axis while in possession of four cows suspected to have been rustled by a terrorist group. He reportedly confessed to selling the animals and intended to return the illicit proceeds.
Addressing Security Concerns in Vulnerable Areas
In light of rising security concerns in Achida and surrounding regions, particularly due to recent attacks and the evacuation of residents, questions have been raised regarding logistical challenges faced by law enforcement, including shortages of vehicles and personnel. Commissioner Shafa addressed these concerns, acknowledging the challenges while assuring the public that deployments to affected areas are being intensified.
Commitment to Community Engagement and Intelligence Gathering
Shafa assured citizens that the police are actively working with the state government, various security agencies, and community stakeholders to enhance security across the region. He expressed confidence in the command’s efforts to stabilize Achida, Guruno, and other vulnerable areas, stating, “We are intensifying intelligence gathering and community engagement to address the challenges.” He urged residents to remain vigilant and provide the police with reliable information to aid their operations.
