Operatives of the Sokoto State Police Command have foiled a bandit attack on Anada Village in Binji Local Government Area, recovering all 43 sheep rustled by the attackers during the operation.

The Command said the incident occurred at about 9:00 p.m. on Thursday when armed bandits stormed the remote community, firing sporadically before making away with 43 sheep belonging to residents.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, the police said the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Binji immediately mobilised tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and the Viable Crimes Response Unit (VCRU), to intercept the fleeing bandits.

“The operatives swiftly blocked all exit routes from the village and engaged the bandits in a fierce gun duel. Overpowered by the superior firepower of the police, the hoodlums abandoned the rustled animals and escaped through the nearby forest,” the statement said.

According to the police, all 43 rustled sheep were recovered intact, while no casualties or injuries were recorded among security personnel or residents during the operation.

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The Command added that tactical teams have continued combing the surrounding forests in an effort to apprehend the fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks in the area.

Commending the officers involved, Sokoto State Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, praised the Binji Divisional Police Officer and his team for their prompt response and professionalism.

“The Command remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting lives and property across Sokoto State. We urge members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to assist the police in sustaining these achievements,” the commissioner said.

Residents of Binji and neighbouring communities have experienced repeated threats from armed bandits in recent years, prompting intensified security operations by police and other security agencies across parts of Sokoto State.