The Sokoto State Police Command says it has foiled an attempted bandit attack on Tsabre community in Isa Local Government Area, following an early-morning security operation that led to the recovery of two rocket launchers and other abandoned items.

According to a statement issued on Friday, October 2, by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmad Rufa’i, the incident happened at approximately 1am when armed men reportedly entered the community and began shooting, triggering fear among residents.

Rufa’i said the Divisional Police Officer in Isa received a distress call and promptly mobilised tactical personnel, including members of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Violent Crime Response Unit, to respond to the situation.

The police spokesperson explained that the responding officers confronted the attackers in an exchange of gunfire, eventually forcing them to withdraw towards a nearby forest. He added that the fleeing men reportedly sustained casualties, although the police statement did not provide details of the number or condition of those affected.

Following the encounter, security operatives searched the surrounding bushes and reportedly recovered two rocket launchers and two empty magazines. Other items listed by the police included a keypad mobile phone without a battery, a torchlight, an army jungle hat, a sweater cap, five pairs of sandals and a rain jacket. (Punch)

The Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, Hayatu Shaffa, commended the officers involved, praising their response to the distress call and their handling of the operation.

Shaffa also reiterated the command's commitment to protecting residents and property across the state, while urging members of the public to remain alert and provide security agencies with timely information about suspicious movements or activities.

The commissioner further appealed to residents to report anyone suspected of having gunshot injuries who turns up seeking medical attention, saying efforts were continuing to locate the attackers who escaped.

The incident adds to the security concerns affecting parts of Sokoto State, including communities in Isa Local Government Area, where residents have faced threats from armed groups. Previous reports have documented security operations and attacks in different parts of the state. (European Union Agency for Asylum)

Although the police say the attack was repelled, details about possible civilian casualties or injuries during Friday's incident were not provided in the statement. The command has also not announced any arrests connected to the attack.

Residents are being encouraged to cooperate with security agencies as the search for the fleeing attackers continues.