Suspected Lakurawa militants launched a deadly raid on Girkau community in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State on Monday, killing at least one police officer and two civilians before being repelled by security forces. The attackers also set fire to two security vehicles, one belonging to the Nigeria Police Force and another to the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps, according to officials.
Attack Details and Immediate Response
The assault occurred in the afternoon, prompting a distress call that was quickly answered by police operatives. Sokoto State Police spokesman DSP Ahmed Rufai confirmed the incident, stating, "We received a distress call from the community and immediately mobilised our personnel to the scene. We were able to repel the Lakurawa bandits, but during the exchange of gunfire, one of our officers paid the supreme price." The officer was identified by residents as Hussaini Manyu.
The attackers, heavily armed, opened fire on both security personnel and villagers, forcing many to flee. In addition to the police officer, two civilians lost their lives: an elderly resident named Bala Wakili and a young herder who refused to surrender his cattle. A community source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, "What happened in Girkau is heartbreaking. We lost a police officer who was defending the community, an elderly man, and a young herder. They also burnt security vehicles and took away many cattle. Our people are living in fear because these attacks are becoming too frequent."
Casualties and Property Damage
The raid also left a farmer injured after being shot while working on his land; he is currently receiving treatment at a health facility. Residents alleged that a woman was assaulted after resisting an attempted sexual attack during the invasion. An unspecified number of cattle were rustled before the attackers withdrew, adding to the community's losses.
According to Daily Trust, a security operative who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed that the body of the slain officer was recovered and buried on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. The attack has heightened fears among residents, who had reportedly flagged suspicious activity to security agencies before the incident.
Community Concerns and Government Response
Community members are now calling on both the Federal Government and the Sokoto State Government to strengthen security operations across Kebbe and its neighbouring local government areas. Rufai assured that the command has since stepped up patrols in the area and remains committed to protecting lives and property.
This incident is part of a troubling pattern of violence in Sokoto State. In a separate attack, suspected bandits stormed Lajinge village in Sabon Birni LGA, killing 12 people, including six who were burnt alive after gunmen poured petrol on a room where residents had taken shelter. In another incident, heavily armed bandits raided Tsamaye community, leading to the deaths of 21 people and the abduction of 37 others, with about 25 people drowning when overloaded boats capsized during the escape.
