Bandits have carried out another violent attack in Sabon-Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, kidnapping an entire group of passengers travelling along the Kurawa–Sabon Birni road.
The attackers reportedly blocked the road, stopped a commercial vehicle, and took away all the passengers, including the driver, on Wednesday evening.
This incident happened less than 24 hours after armed men invaded Sabon Birni town on Tuesday night and kidnapped three people two young women and a man from the Jargaba area.
The renewed attacks have created fear and tension across the LGA, raising serious concerns about the effectiveness of current security operations in the area.
Security analysts and residents say the back to back kidnappings highlight major security lapses, including poor surveillance, slow response, and weak territorial control. Despite the presence of security personnel, bandits continue to operate boldly and without resistance.
Key concerns raised by residents and analysts include:
Highway insecurity: Major roads remain unsafe, with bandits able to set up surprise roadblocks easily.
Weak intelligence: Residents complain that bandits often move in groups without any interception by security agencies.
Nighttime vulnerability: Most attacks happen after dark, when security patrols are reduced, and communities become more exposed.
A resident told reporters that the bandits now operate “as if there is no security presence,” adding that people no longer feel safe traveling even short distances.
The wave of kidnappings has forced many families to stay indoors, disrupted local business activities, and limited movement across rural communities. Farming, market trips, and school attendance have all been affected.
Local leaders warn that if the attacks continue, Sabon-Birni may face a complete “economic shutdown” as residents flee or restrict their daily activities.
With two major attacks in just 24 hours, community members are calling on the military, police, and Sokoto State Government to:
For now, Sabon-Birni remains on edge, with residents unsure when or where the bandits will strike next.
