Bandits Threaten Sokoto Community, Police Raise Red Alert

The Sokoto State Police Command has placed Kebbe Local Government Area on red alert following intelligence reports of a planned attack by suspected bandits.

The development has heightened tension across Kebbe and neighbouring communities, with residents reportedly alarmed by threats of a fresh assault.

Police spokesperson, DSP Ahmed Rufai, confirmed the development on Thursday, assuring residents that security operatives were taking measures to prevent the attack and protect lives and property.

“Yes, the command is aware of the imminent threat. The command is on red alert,” Rufai said.

The reported threat followed an alleged demand by the bandits for a N40m levy from residents of Kebbe town and surrounding communities.

The criminals were reportedly said to have threatened to attack the community if the money was not paid.

Local sources further alleged that the bandits had fixed Friday for the planned assault and were mobilising other criminal groups to join the operation.

The timing of the reported attack has raised additional concerns as it coincides with the scheduled commissioning of a newly upgraded Juma’at Mosque in Kebbe by the Sokoto State Government.

The planned event is expected to attract residents, government officials and other dignitaries, prompting concerns over their safety.

The threat has reportedly been communicated to relevant authorities, including officials of Kebbe Local Government Area, who subsequently alerted the state government.

Some residents and community stakeholders have called for the postponement of the mosque commissioning to avoid exposing the community and visitors to possible danger.

As of Thursday, however, there was no official confirmation that the event had been cancelled or postponed.

The latest development comes less than two weeks after a deadly bandit attack on Kebbe and surrounding communities, during which residents were reportedly killed, abducted and displaced.

The renewed threat has reportedly triggered another wave of anxiety, with some residents leaving their homes for safer locations.

Some displaced residents have reportedly moved towards Jega and other communities in neighbouring Kebbi State.

The situation further highlights the security challenges confronting communities along the Sokoto-Kebbi axis, where criminal groups have continued to use threats, violence and illegal levies to intimidate residents.

The police command said it remained committed to preventing the planned attack and ensuring the safety of law-abiding residents across the state.