Bandits kill police officer, burn patrol vehicles during attack in Sokoto

An Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Bala Wakili, has been killed during a gun battle between security operatives and suspected bandits in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

ASP Wakili, who was attached to the Kebbe Police Division, died while responding to an attack on communities in the area.

Livestock raid triggers confrontation

According to local sources, the suspected bandits invaded Girkau and Zugu villages at about 4 p.m. on Monday, rustling an unspecified number of livestock before attempting to flee.

A joint security team comprising police officers, soldiers and members of the Sokoto Community Guard Corps reportedly laid an ambush for the attackers as they were leaving Zugu village.

Officer killed, patrol vehicles destroyed

The confrontation developed into a fierce gun battle that reportedly lasted for more than an hour.

Sources said the armed bandits, who were believed to be in large numbers, eventually overpowered the security team, killing ASP Bala Wakili in the exchange.

The attackers also set two patrol vehicles on fire—one belonging to the Nigeria Police Force and another belonging to the Sokoto Community Guard Corps.

Police confirm incident

A security operative, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the slain officer’s body was recovered and buried on Tuesday.

The spokesperson of the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, also confirmed the incident, describing ASP Wakili as an officer who “paid the supreme price” in the line of duty.

He said additional security personnel have been deployed to the affected communities to strengthen security, adding that the situation has been brought under control.

According to the police, security agencies are continuing efforts to track down those responsible for the attack and prevent further incidents in the area.