Bandits Kill Phone Charging Booth Operator in Sokoto Village Raid
Suspected Lakurawa terrorists have killed a phone shop operator and injured several others during a violent attack on Mano village in the Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The incident occurred on Monday evening, sending shockwaves through the community and highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.
Details of the Attack
Witnesses reported that the attackers stormed the village at approximately 9:02 p.m. on four motorcycles, immediately opening fire on a phone charging shop owned by Nafi’u Mamman. The assailants looted mobile phones, power banks, cigarettes, and food items from the shop before fleeing the scene. In a tragic turn, the deceased was identified as a member of the Sokoto Community Guard Corps, having previously fled the community due to security threats but returning in January this year.
New Strategy by Bandits
Residents noted that the bandits adopted a new strategy by striking during Taraweeh prayers when most residents were in the mosque. This tactic was apparently designed to avoid confrontation with local vigilantes, who are often active in the area. In addition to the killing and injuries, the attackers rustled about 20 livestock, with some animals later recovered, though the exact number remains unconfirmed at press time.
Official Response and Regional Context
An official from the Tangaza Local Government Council confirmed the incident and appealed to security agencies to deploy more personnel to the area to prevent further attacks. Tangaza, which shares a border with the Niger Republic, has been among the worst-hit areas by activities of Lakurawa bandits and other criminal elements, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced security measures.
