Again, Bandits Abduct Three Members of the Same Family in Kwara

. Army thwarts attack by terrorists in Sokoto

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin and Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto

Suspected bandits  have reportedly abducted three people of the same family at Agboro community   in Patigi local government area of Kwara State.

However, troops of the Nigerian Army’s Operation Fansan Yanma launched a rapid‑response operation near Gatawa village, Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State foiling  attack by terrorists.

The victims in Kwara, according to THISDAY investigations, were abducted  on Sunday on  their way back from condolence visit  to their family member that passed away few days ago.

Sources told journalists in Ilorin yesterday that the names of the victims include,  Abiodun Abidemi and Abiodun Olumide (brothers of the deceased) and Ayomide Moses (son of the deceased.

Sources said that the victims were said to be  indigenes of Agboro, a community in the local government.

 It was gathered that, the three victims were kidnapped at about 7:a.m on the ill-fated day.

THISDAY further learnt that the suspected bandits are yet to get in touch with the families  of the victims but sources stated that the bandits have taken the victims towards Isanlu in Kogi State.

 Though, a senior police officer with the Patigi Divisional Police Headquarters in Patigi who sought anonymity confirmed the incident to newsmen in an interview on Monday. But the state police commissioner, Mr. Adekimi Ojo,  denied the report, saying: “I am not aware ooo, I am not aware.”

Meanwhile, the troops of the Nigerian Army’s Operation Fansan Yanma launched a rapid‑response operation near Gatawa village, Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State foiling  terrorists attack.

Acting on intelligence, the soldiers intercepted a gang of armed bandits who had opened fire on a local vigilance group, forcing the attackers to retreat before they could breach the settlement. The swift military action left the area “stable and under control,” according to a security source who asked to remain anonymous.

 The encounter, which took place around midnight, saw the bandits firing sporadically at villagers and the vigilantes. Four members of the community’s vigilante team sustained gunshot injuries and were later taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. 

Their condition is reported to be improving, and no civilian fatalities were recorded during the clash.

While the army’s intervention was underway, a rumour began circulating on social media that a mosque in Sabon Birni had been stormed, resulting in the killing of an Imam and several worshippers, with others allegedly abducted. The story quickly gained traction, prompting local officials to address the misinformation.

 Chairman of Sabon Birni LGA, Alhaji Ayuba Hashimu, while speaking  to journalists categorically denied the mosque attack. “I don’t know any mosque that was attacked, not to talk of killing of an Imam and worshippers. The story is false,” he said, emphasising that no such incident occurred in his jurisdiction.

Similarly, the area’s lawmaker, Alhaji Aminu Boza, who represents Sabon Birni in the Sokoto State House of Assembly, echoed the denial. “I don’t know how they got their story, but it is not true. No mosque was attacked by bandits,” Boza told reporters, urging the public to verify information before sharing it

The officials’ statements come amid a broader effort by Sokoto authorities to curb the spread of false narratives that often exacerbate fear in already volatile communities. Both Hashimu and Boza called for responsible reporting and warned that misinformation could hinder ongoing security operations.

The military source confirmed that the bandits involved in the Gatawa raid were part of a larger network that has been active in the Sabon Birni forest belt. The attackers fled toward the Dan‑Kamarawa corridor after the army’s rapid response, and troops are currently conducting follow‑up patrols to prevent any retaliation.

This incident is the latest in a series of bandit attacks that have plagued Sokoto’s eastern districts. Earlier this year, the army eliminated the notorious bandit kingpin Dan Dari Biyar in a separate clearance operation, dealing a significant blow to the criminal syndicate operating in the region .

Residents of Gatawa expressed relief that the army’s timely intervention prevented a larger tragedy. “We heard gunshots, but the soldiers were there in minutes. They saved our village,” said one local, who preferred anonymity.

The Nigerian Army’s Operation Fansan Yanma has intensified its presence in Sokoto, aiming to dismantle bandit enclaves and restore confidence among civilians. The operation’s commander, Major General Idris Warrah, recently visited the 248 Recce Battalion in Illela, urging troops to “crush the terrorists” and assuring them of improved welfare.  

Security analysts noted that the combination of military pressure and community cooperation has begun to yield results, but the threat remains.

“Bandits adapt quickly, so sustained operations are essential,” said a regional security expert, who asked not to be named.

 In response to the Gatawa raid, the Sokoto State government has pledged to support the military’s efforts, including providing logistical assistance and reinforcing local vigilante groups with training and equipment.

The denial of the mosque attack by local officials underscores the challenge of separating fact from fiction in conflict zones. Misinformation can spread rapidly, especially on digital platforms, and often fuels panic. Authorities are urging citizens to rely on verified sources, such as statements from the army or official press releases.

Meanwhile, the police in Sokoto have made progress in disrupting the financial networks that sustain banditry. In recent weeks, three suspected financiers were arrested, and rustled cattle and stolen motorcycles were recovered, further weakening the bandits’ logistical capabilities  

The community of Sabon Birni remains on high alert, with residents advised to report any suspicious activity to security agencies. The army has assured that troops will maintain a visible presence in the area to deter further attacks.

 As the dust settles on the Gatawa encounter, the focus now shifts to rebuilding trust between the local populace and security forces. The successful repulsion of the bandits, coupled with the officials’ swift denial of the mosque rumor, offers a glimmer of hope for stability in the region.