The Sokoto State Police Command says it has recorded significant gains in its ongoing operations against banditry, including the repelling of coordinated attacks and the recovery of weapons and ammunition across several communities in the state.
Commissioner of Police, Hassan Shaffa, disclosed this on Friday during a press briefing at the Command Headquarters in Sokoto, where he outlined recent security operations and ongoing counter-banditry strategies.
Shaffa said the command remains committed to dismantling criminal networks, stressing that security agencies are maintaining a coordinated response to persistent threats in parts of the state.
According to him, a major breakthrough was recorded on April 8 when police operatives, working alongside the military and local vigilante groups, foiled an attack on Kwarangamba and Gaya villages in Sabon Birni Local Government Area.
He explained that a gun battle ensued between the security team and the attackers, forcing the bandits to retreat with suspected injuries.
During the operation, the fleeing attackers reportedly abandoned a sack containing 167 rounds of live ammunition, which was later recovered and documented as evidence.
The police chief further disclosed that on April 15, coordinated raids were carried out on suspected criminal hideouts in Tambuwal, Kware, and Goronyo Local Government Areas.
The operations led to the arrest of three suspects and the recovery of locally made firearms, an AK-47 magazine, military camouflage, and substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
Shaffa said all arrested suspects have been charged to court, adding that the operations form part of sustained efforts to weaken criminal supply chains and armed groups in the region.
In another development, the command arrested a suspected bandit informant and logistics supplier identified as Aminu Meroba along the Tangaza axis.
He was reportedly intercepted with four cows believed to have been rustled by a terrorist group and was allegedly transporting them for sale.
According to the police, the suspect confessed to receiving the livestock from a criminal group and planned to sell them before returning the proceeds.
Shaffa said investigations into the case are ongoing, as authorities work to uncover wider support networks aiding armed groups in the area.
Responding to concerns raised by journalists over insecurity in Achida and nearby communities, including reports of attacks, displacement, and logistical challenges facing security operatives, the commissioner acknowledged the situation.
He assured that the police have intensified deployments to affected areas and are treating the axis as a priority zone for immediate intervention.
Shaffa added that additional tactical teams have been deployed and that efforts are ongoing to strengthen intelligence gathering and community collaboration.
He also confirmed that the command is working closely with other security agencies, the state government, and local stakeholders to improve response capacity and restore stability.
The commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to assist security operations across the state.
