Bandits have launched a deadly attack on Garin Faji village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, killing a father and his 8-year-old daughter. Seventeen others were abducted and about 50 cows were rustled during the raid.
Attack Details
Local sources told Daily Trust that the attackers stormed the village in large numbers on foot, leaving their motorcycles at a distance to avoid detection due to engine noise. A resident, speaking on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said the assailants began shooting sporadically upon arrival, forcing residents to flee.
"I was in my shop around 12:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, when I heard gunshots that signaled their arrival. I quickly closed and went into hiding," he said.
He added that the bandits later entered a house where they killed a man, Haruna Dan Kwambo, and his eight-year-old daughter. They also abducted his two wives, along with his brother's wives, brother's children's wives, and other children.
Abductions and Rustling
According to residents, a total of 17 people were abducted, including three men, while the rest were women and children. The attackers also rustled about 50 cows during the raid.
Residents said the incident was not the first, recalling previous attacks in which people were killed and abducted. They also recounted a separate incident where villagers fleeing bandit attacks capsized in a boat, leading to the death of about 10 people.
Community Plea
"They operated for about one hour. Before security operatives arrived, they had already left," the source said, adding that the community lacks security presence. "We are calling on authorities to rescue our abducted relatives. The situation is becoming unbearable," he added.
