The Sokoto State Police Command has recorded a significant victory against banditry in Tureta Local Government Area, recovering 137 rustled cattle across two coordinated operations without a single casualty among the villagers.
In a statement detailing the breakthrough, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, explained that the first attack targeted Fura Kirke village, where heavily armed criminals entered the community, shot indiscriminately, and herded away 65 cows. “Upon receipt of the information, all tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and VCRC, were immediately mobilised,” he said. Operatives blocked all escape routes and engaged the bandits in a fierce gun duel, forcing them to retreat through Gizazza Forest and abandon the stolen livestock.
Meanwhile, in a separate assault on Bimasa village, also within the same LGA, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit swiftly responded to another distress call. Security forces engaged the bandits in a sustained gun battle, compelling the assailants to flee into the nearby forest, leaving behind 72 rustled cows.
DSP Rufa’i confirmed that all recovered cattle have been accounted for, and patrols have been intensified to track the fleeing suspects. Local residents have lauded the police for their rapid intervention, which they say has restored a profound sense of safety in the agrarian communities.
