Bandits launch deadly raid, kill traditional leader, son in Sokoto

Kulodo village head, Alhaji Abubakar Tudu, his eldest son, Abubakar Abubakar, as well as four other people have been murdered by armed bandits in a new attack on the community in Bodinga Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Another victim was killed in neighboring Kwance village during the attack.

This happened at the time when people were in Asr prayer.

A security source disclosed to our reporter that the attackers came to Kulodo and Kwance villages in large numbers riding on motorcycles, shooting everywhere.

It is understood from the source that the victims who died in Kulodo village were the village head, his eldest son, Rufa’i Bala, Muhammad Sanusi and Aliyu Dan-Uti, while Yellow Dikko died in Kwance village.

“The bandits invaded the communities in large numbers and immediately began shooting.

“They killed the village head, his eldest son and four other residents before moving to the neighbouring village, where they also killed another person,” the source said.

The source added that the attackers rustled a large number of livestock but did not abduct any residents.

“They were mainly after animals. They forced local herders to drive the stolen cattle while they escorted them on motorcycles.

“The herders later told us the livestock were taken to a forest in Zamfara State before they were released to return home,” the source said.

He further disclosed that the attack has forced women and children to flee both communities.

“We have just returned from the villages after accompanying some state government officials and lawmakers on a condolence visit.

“The situation is devastating. Virtually all the women and children have fled, leaving behind only a few men,” he added.

The latest attack came barely 24 hours after bandits reportedly killed the Chief Imam of Talluje village and two other residents in another attack in Bodinga Local Government Area, raising fresh concerns over the worsening security situation in the area.