Police Foil Bandits’ Attack on Sokoto Village, Recover Two Rocket Launchers

Operatives of the Sokoto State Police Command have foiled an alleged attack by suspected bandits on Tsabre Village in Isa Local Government Area, recovering two rocket launchers and two empty AK-47 magazines.

The incident reportedly occurred at about 1am on Friday, October 2, 2026, when armed men 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.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, disclosed this in a statement issued on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Hayatu Hassan Shaffa.

According to the statement, the Divisional Police Officer in Isa immediately mobilised operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violent Crime Response Unit after receiving information about the attack.

The teams reportedly engaged the armed men in a prolonged exchange of gunfire before the attackers fled.

The command added that some of the fleeing suspects were believed to have sustained casualties, although it 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.

The recovered items 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 swift response and determination to protect residents of the community.

He said the operation reflected the command’s commitment to preventing criminal groups 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 help prevent attacks and facilitate the arrest of 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 in vulnerable communities across the state.