The Chairman of Rabah Local Government Area in Sokoto State has strongly denied widespread media reports claiming multiple fatalities during a bandit attack on Tofa Village earlier this week.
Official Denial of Mass Casualties
Alhaji Yusuf Mohammed Rabah categorically dismissed what he described as "false, misleading, and completely detached from the actual incident" reports circulating about the attack. Contrary to sensational media coverage, the chairman emphasized that no lives were lost during the violent incident that occurred around midnight on Wednesday.
How the Attack Unfolded
According to the chairman's detailed account, the attackers are suspected to have originated from Alikiru in the Sububu Forest area of Maradun Local Government in Zamfara state. The armed group passed through Dankare and Dalijan villages before eventually storming Tofa Village under cover of darkness.
"Upon their arrival, they began shooting sporadically, causing panic," Alhaji Yusuf stated, describing the chaotic scene that unfolded as villagers scrambled for safety.
Security Response and Casualties
A swift response from security forces prevented what could have been a much more devastating outcome. A combined team of soldiers, police officers, the Community Guard Corps, and local vigilantes confronted the bandits, engaging them in a fierce gun battle that lasted several minutes.
During the confrontation, two villagers sustained gunshot wounds. Medical authorities have since discharged one victim after treatment, while the second remains hospitalized due to more severe injuries. The local government council has assumed full responsibility for covering all medical expenses.
The chairman confirmed the abduction of two women by the fleeing bandits, though he dismissed claims of widespread kidnappings as exaggerated.
Bandits Forced to Abandon Stolen Livestock
As security forces intensified their counterattack, the bandits were compelled to abandon the livestock they had rustled during their raid. This development marked a partial victory for the security operatives who successfully disrupted the criminals' operations.
Alhaji Yusuf praised the military, police, community guards, and vigilantes for their bravery and prompt response, acknowledging that their intervention prevented greater tragedy.
The chairman reassured Rabah LGA residents of the administration's commitment to strengthening security measures and improving intelligence gathering across communities. He urged locals to support government efforts by providing credible information about suspicious movements or potential informants operating within the area.
