Police confirm bandits attack on Sokoto communities

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen stated on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, that security agencies are actively working to recover ammunition suspected to be in the possession of bandits involved in cattle rustling. Speaking before Parliament, Murkomen emphasized that the possession of these munitions by criminals is a significant concern.

During his testimony, Murkomen revealed that intelligence reports have pinpointed areas where these suspected criminals may be hiding, indicating the process of recovering the ammunition is currently underway.

Murkomen expressed confidence in the National Police Service's ability to act on the intelligence and successfully retrieve the ammunition. "The process of recovering the same is ongoing because it’s so worrying," he told lawmakers, stressing the need for immediate action to address the situation. The Interior CS also confirmed that intelligence reports have identified the locations where the suspected bandits are believed to be hiding, assuring the public that the police will take all necessary steps to recover the ammunition.

However, Murkomen cautioned that further investigations are required to fully understand the circumstances surrounding a recent incident involving livestock attacks. While investigations are ongoing, he noted that authorities are still determining the full details of what transpired during the incident. Despite this, Murkomen highlighted the valuable assistance provided by elders and community leaders in efforts to recover firearms from suspected bandits.

He acknowledged that these leaders have been instrumental in recovering some firearms, particularly in areas where threats from banditry are prevalent.

Murkomen also noted that community leaders face significant challenges in their efforts to combat banditry, including pressure from communities affected by livestock theft. These leaders often grapple with the question of why firearms continue to enter their areas despite the residents' inability to identify or report the individuals possessing them.

He emphasized the complexity of the situation, pointing out that the elders involved in recovering firearms are themselves often victims of banditry. "Even those elders who are helping to get firearm, their lives are in danger," he warned, rejecting the notion that they operate from a position of safety.

In summary, Murkomen reiterated that the recovery of the ammunition will continue as security agencies pursue leads on the whereabouts of the suspected criminals. He expressed confidence that the ammunition will ultimately be recovered through this concerted effort.