Bandits Strike Sokoto Village, Abduct Pregnant Women and Others
In a distressing incident, armed bandits have abducted no fewer than five individuals, including two pregnant women, during a raid on Maiwa Village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto state. The attack occurred on Saturday, March 28, 2026, and has left the community in a state of fear and uncertainty.
Details of the Attack
According to local residents, the heavily armed bandits stormed the village on seven motorcycles, launching a sudden assault that caught many off guard. One resident recounted the harrowing experience, stating, "They came and met us sitting at the mosque, and before they shot in the air, I ran speedily towards the Police officers. They (Police officers) also fled and abandoned their place of work when they saw two of the bandits pursuing me on motorcycles. After I escaped, they returned and went into houses and abducted the victims." This account highlights the chaos and vulnerability faced by both civilians and law enforcement during the incident.
Victims Identified
The abducted victims have been identified as Sadiya Umar, Firdausi Umar, Maryam Musa, Ubaida Musa, and Harira Nura. Notably, two of the victims, Sadiya and Ubaida, are heavily pregnant and due to deliver soon, raising urgent concerns for their health and safety. The resident emphasized this critical detail, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Additional Impacts and Aftermath
During the raid, the bandits also rustled 12 cows, though they later returned the livestock. In the aftermath of the attack, many residents fled to the neighbouring Niger Republic in search of safety, only to return on Sunday morning as the immediate threat subsided. This mass displacement reflects the broader security challenges plaguing the region.
Police Response and Ongoing Concerns
As of now, the Sokoto state police command has yet to issue an official comment on this development, leaving questions unanswered about the investigation and efforts to rescue the abducted individuals. The silence from authorities adds to the anxiety among residents, who are calling for enhanced security measures to prevent future attacks.
This incident underscores the persistent threat of banditry in Sokoto and other parts of Nigeria, highlighting the need for more robust security interventions to protect vulnerable communities, especially women and children.
