Police operatives in Sokoto State have repelled a suspected bandit attack on Tsabre Village in Isa Local Government Area, recovering two rocket launchers and other items reportedly abandoned by the attackers.
The attack occurred around 1am when the assailants allegedly opened sporadic gunfire to create panic among residents, according to the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i.
Rufa’i said the Divisional Police Officer in Isa mobilised tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and Violent Crime Response Unit, after receiving a distress call.
The operatives reportedly engaged the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to retreat into a nearby forest. The police spokesman said the bandits suffered casualties during the encounter.
A subsequent search of the surrounding bushes led to the recovery of two rocket launchers, two empty AK-47 magazines, a keypad Tecno phone without a battery and a torchlight.
Other items recovered included an army jungle hat, a sweater cap, five pairs of sandals and a rain jacket.
The Commissioner of Police in Sokoto, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, commended the operatives for what he described as their swift response and gallantry.
Shaffa reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
The police urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious persons or activities, particularly individuals with gunshot wounds who may seek medical attention within their communities.