Heroic Troops Overpower Bandits in Sokoto, Rescue 32 Hostages

Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.

A coordinated security operation involving the Sokoto State Police Command and the Nigerian Army has successfully rescued 32 kidnapped victims and foiled a major bandit operation in Maikujera Village, Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The operation, which unfolded on the morning of Monday, August 24, 2026, followed a distress call reporting the movement of heavily armed bandits with rustled livestock and kidnapped victims. Police tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violent Crime Reaction Unit, swiftly mobilised and, in coordination with the Army Forward Operating Base, blocked the major escape routes.

According to a statement by the command's Public Relations Officer, Ahmad Rufa'i, a fierce gun battle ensued as the security forces confronted the bandits. Overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the combined security forces, the criminals abandoned the hostages and rustled animals before fleeing into the forest. A subsequent search operation led to the rescue of 32 kidnapped victims, comprising six adult males and 26 females, most of them children. The rescued victims were evacuated to safety and are receiving medical and psychological support ahead of their reunification with their families.

Tragically, four persons were confirmed killed by the bandits before the arrival of security forces. The Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and assured residents that efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing perpetrators. He reaffirmed the command's commitment to combating banditry and kidnapping across the state and urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or individuals to the nearest security agency. The operation took place in Maikujera village, a remote community bordering Zamfara State, which has been a hotspot for bandit activities.

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