Incident occurred in rural community on Wednesday as local authorities intensify security patrols in affected areas

Armed men attacked a farming community in Sokoto State on Wednesday, killing four people and abducting at least twelve others. The incident took place in a rural area, with residents confirming the loss of life and multiple kidnappings during the raid.

Eyewitnesses said the assailants stormed the village early in the morning while farmers were working on their farmlands. The gunmen reportedly shot sporadically, leading to the deaths of four individuals before seizing twelve others and fleeing towards an unknown location. The families of those abducted have expressed deep concern for their safety, calling on security agencies to intervene urgently.

Attacks by armed groups have become more frequent in parts of Sokoto State and across the North-West geopolitical zone, affecting farming activities and livelihoods. Many residents say they live in fear due to repeated threats from criminal elements targeting rural communities for ransom and supplies.

Local authorities confirmed the incident and stated that police and vigilante groups have launched search operations to rescue the kidnapped persons. A senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “We are working with community leaders to gather intelligence and ensure the safe return of those taken.” Efforts are also underway to strengthen patrols in vulnerable villages.

Security experts warn that continued attacks could worsen food insecurity as farmers abandon their lands out of fear. Community leaders have called on both federal and state governments to provide more resources for security agencies and address the root causes of rural banditry.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/888334-bandits-kill-four-farmers-abduct-12-in-sokoto-attack.html