At least 28 people, including the Chief Imam of Ungushi Izala Jumu’at Mosque, Imam Aliyu, have been killed following an attack by bandits on Ungushi community in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The attack occurred on Sunday evening amid renewed security concerns in Kebbe, where several communities have reportedly faced threats from armed groups allegedly linked to the Lakurawa terrorist organisation.
The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the incident, although it said the exact number of casualties was yet to be established.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Ahmed Rufai, said it was difficult to determine the actual number of people killed in the attack.
He, however, confirmed that security operatives recovered no fewer than 28 corpses from the affected community after the attack.
The latest incident has heightened concerns over the security situation in communities along the Sokoto-Kebbi border, with residents reportedly fleeing some areas following recent attacks and incidents of livestock rustling.
The development also comes shortly after the General Officer Commanding the Nigerian Army’s 8 Division, Major General Bemgba Koughna, visited Kebbe Local Government Area to assess the security situation and inspect military operations in the area.
The Army had said the visit followed reports of renewed attacks on Ungushi and surrounding communities.
Security agencies are expected to intensify operations in the affected areas as efforts continue to restore security and prevent further attacks.