Many killed as Sokoto records second attack in 48 hours

By Salim Ashir Mahuta, Sokoto Bandits have again attacked Dan Gulbi community in Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State, barely two days after a similar assault that left 17 people, including Sallah visitors, dead. Residents said the attackers, who arrived in large numbers on motorcycles, stormed the village at about 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday and began shooting sporadically, forcing villagers to flee for safety. Sources from the community alleged that no fewer than 20 people were killed during the latest attack, while several houses were set ablaze and many others missing. A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity said the attackers struck while people were gathered under sheds and remained in the village for several hours after the attack. “They came and started shooting at us. People ran in different directions to save their lives,” the source said. On Sunday, bandits riding on more than 150 motorcycles attacked the same community, killing 17 people and looting about 20 shops. The reccurring incident has forced residents to call on security agencies and relevant authorities concerned to urgently intervene. When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Sokoto State Command, DSP Ahmad Rufai, said the command had received a distress call from Tureta and immediately mobilised personnel to the area. He added that a comprehensive report was being awaited from officers on the ground.