A coordinated attack by nearly 90 armed bandits on Tozai village in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State was repelled by a joint team of military and police operatives on March 31, 2025.
The assailants, who arrived on motorcycles, were met with heavy resistance, forcing them to retreat after a fierce gun battle.
Despite the security forces’ success in thwarting the attack, a stray bullet fired by the bandits struck a villager, 35-year-old Sule Ummaru, as he attempted to flee the chaos.
He was immediately rushed to General Hospital Isa but succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical attention.
A local resident, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, described the terrifying moments of the attack.
“The bandits came in large numbers, shooting sporadically. People were running for their lives when the security forces engaged them. It was during the exchange of gunfire that Sule was hit,” the resident said.
Confirming the incident, a security official stated, “Our forces responded swiftly and engaged the attackers in a gunfight.
“Their superior firepower forced the bandits to retreat, but sadly, a civilian was hit by a stray bullet.”
In the aftermath of the attack, security operatives have intensified patrols in the area to prevent further threats and ensure the safety of residents.