At least five people have been killed and several women abducted in a brutal attack by suspected bandits led by notorious kingpin Bello Turji on Lajinge community in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The violent invasion occurred on Tuesday night, leaving residents traumatized and communities on high alert. Conflict reporter Bakatsine confirmed the incident in a post shared on Wednesday via his X handle, providing critical details about the assault and its aftermath.
The attackers stormed the village under cover of darkness, opening fire on residents and causing widespread panic. Five people were confirmed dead, while eight others sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention. The exact number of women abducted remains unclear, but local sources indicate multiple females were taken during the chaos, raising serious concerns about their safety and potential exploitation.
In addition to the loss of lives and abductions, the bandits reportedly stole a large number of livestock and looted valuables from homes before fleeing the area. The destruction and theft have left many families destitute, further deepening the humanitarian crisis in the region. The community is now grappling with fear and uncertainty, as residents question whether their homes will remain safe from future attacks.
Bakatsine highlighted the ongoing pattern of violence linked to Bello Turji, emphasizing the growing toll on civilian populations. “Bello Turji’s relentless attacks on communities across this axis have continued to cause fear, displacement and loss of lives,” he wrote. He also questioned the lack of decisive action from security forces, urging authorities to end the cycle of terror that has plagued the area for months.
As of the time of reporting, security agencies had not issued any official statement confirming the attack or detailing any response. The absence of immediate government action has fueled frustration among residents, who feel abandoned and vulnerable. The incident underscores the persistent insecurity in northern Nigeria, where banditry continues to threaten lives, livelihoods, and social stability.
The attack on Lajinge is part of a broader pattern of violence in Sokoto and neighboring states, where armed groups have increasingly targeted rural communities. With no clear end in sight, communities remain on edge, awaiting stronger intervention from security forces and the government. The situation highlights the urgent need for coordinated efforts to restore peace and protect civilians in conflict-affected regions.
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