In a shocking incident on Saturday night, suspected bandits invaded the Illelar Dawagari community in Kagara Ward, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State, abducting nine residents and rustling over 200 livestock. The attack commenced around 8:30 PM and lasted until approximately 11 PM, instilling fear among the local population.

Eyewitness accounts reveal that the attackers moved through the community, targeting homes and livestock. A resident, who witnessed the violence, recounted the harrowing experience of Saminu Arzika, who was shot while trying to alert others to the presence of the armed men. Arzika had stepped outside to defecate when he noticed the shadows of the bandits. After attempting to shine a torch in their direction, he was ordered to be shot. In a desperate bid for safety, he ran towards the community but was pursued and shot by the attackers.

The sound of gunfire sent many residents fleeing into nearby bushes for safety. The community, which has faced increasing insecurity in recent months, has been the site of previous violent incidents, including the killings of local leaders and abductions.

Among those abducted in the latest attack are five males and four females, including Maryam Yusuf, Rukayya Abdu, and a widow named Maryam Abdullahi. The remaining victims are reported to be children aged between 10 and 15, whose identities remain unknown. Notably, one resident was already in captivity prior to this assault; the victim's family had previously paid a ransom of N1 million, yet the abductors are now demanding a Bajaj motorcycle for his release.

The Sokoto State Police Command has been informed of the incident. DSP Ahmad Rufai, the spokesperson for the police, stated that he would look into the matter and provide further details, although no response had been received by the time of this report.

This recent attack highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by communities in Sokoto State, particularly in Kagara Ward, which has seen a troubling rise in violent crime and abductions in recent months.