Suspected bandits have killed an operative of the Sokoto Community Guards and abducted several residents during a fresh attack on Sabon Birni town in eastern Sokoto State.

The attack, which occurred on Monday night, reportedly threw the community into panic as armed assailants invaded the area and opened fire on residents. During the assault, a member of the state-backed community security outfit was killed while several people were taken away by the attackers. Authorities have yet to confirm the exact number of those kidnapped.

Local sources said the gunmen operated for hours before retreating to nearby forest hideouts with their captives. Security personnel have reportedly launched efforts to track the attackers and secure the release of those abducted.

The latest incident highlights the ongoing security challenges facing communities in Sokoto State, particularly in Sabon Birni and other border areas that have witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups in recent years.

Residents have called for increased security presence and stronger measures to curb the persistent threat of banditry, which continues to affect lives and livelihoods across parts of northwestern Nigeria.

Security agencies had not issued a detailed official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.