In a disturbing attack on Thursday, bandits invaded a mosque in Sokoto State during the early morning Subhi prayer, kidnapping at least 10 worshippers, including the Imam. The attack took place while the congregation was still in the middle of their morning prayers.
Eyewitnesses reported the gunmen stormed the mosque, causing panic among worshippers and residents. Despite the presence of security agents in the area, the gunmen had been terrorizing the community for some time. However, the quick response of the Nigerian Army troops significantly curtailed the bandits’ activities, preventing further escalation.
The timely intervention of security forces, particularly the Nigerian Army, was praised by locals, who credited the troops with averting greater harm. The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the attack on Friday, stating that they were working alongside other security agencies to rescue the kidnapped victims.
Ahmed Rufai, the spokesperson for the Sokoto Police Command, assured the public that efforts were underway to bring the abducted individuals back to safety.
A member of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, representing the Sabon Birni B state constituency, also confirmed the incident. The lawmaker expressed gratitude for the swift actions of the security forces and called for continued efforts to ensure the safety of residents in the area.
The attack has once again highlighted the ongoing security challenges in the region, as well as the need for sustained collaboration between local communities and security agencies to combat banditry and other criminal activities.