Four Farmers Killed, Seven Victims Freed as Troops Repel Bandits in Sokoto
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have rescued seven farmers abducted by bandits following a deadly attack on farmlands in Gandi community, Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The incident occurred on Tuesday morning when heavily armed bandits invaded farms on the outskirts of the community, killing four farmers and abducting several others.
Security sources disclosed that troops of the 8 Division Nigerian Army, deployed in Gandi swiftly responded after receiving reports of the attack.
According to the source, the soldiers immediately launched a pursuit operation,forcing the attackers to flee and leading to the rescue of seven kidnapped victims.
“The troops acted promptly upon receiving the distress call. Their intervention resulted in the successful rescue of seven abducted farmers and the recovery of motorcycles used by the bandits”the source said.
The source further revealed that one civilian sustained gunshot injuries during the attack and was rushed to the General Hospital in Gandi for treatment.
“The injured victim is receiving medical attention and is in stable condition. Troops have maintained their presence in the area to reassure residents and prevent further attacks” the source added.
Residents said the assailants stormed the farmlands and opened fire indiscriminately, causing panic among farmers before whisking away several victims.
Military authority have since intensified patrols and clearance operations around Gandi and neighbouring communities as part of ongoing efforts to tackle banditry and improve security across Sokoto State and the North West zone.
Security officials urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely an credible information that could aid ongoing operations against criminal elements.
