A special police operation has ended in the death of two suspected bandits after officers stormed a criminal enclave believed to be used for planning abductions and attacks in Sokoto State.
The successful operation also led to the recovery of firearms and ammunition used by the armed gang.
Security sources disclosed that the operation followed intelligence reports indicating that several bandits had regrouped deep within a forest area and were preparing for another wave of assaults on nearby communities.
However, the police team, acting swiftly on the tip-off, moved into the area and came under heavy fire from the criminals.
During the ensuing gun battle, two members of the gang were shot dead while others managed to flee into the bush with bullet wounds.
Also, the superior firepower of the police team forced the attackers to abandon their hideout.
The encounter occurred in Julirkol Forest, within Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State, during a coordinated raid conducted by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit on October 22, 2025.
Among the items seized from the hideout were an AK-49 rifle, a locally made gun, several rounds of live ammunition, and sharp weapons believed to have been used in previous attacks.
Commending his men for the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police, Sokoto State Command, said the development reflects the command’s renewed determination to wipe out bandit groups operating in the state.
“Our officers remain resolute in the fight against insecurity, and we will not relent until every criminal element is flushed out,” the Commissioner assured.