At least 37 residents have been abducted, three people killed, and 18 others drowned after armed bandits launched a prolonged overnight assault on Tsamaye community in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, leaving the village almost deserted.
The attack, which reportedly lasted for about seven hours, began around 8:00 p.m. on Monday and continued until 3:00 a.m. on Tuesday, according to residents who spoke about the incident.
Eyewitnesses said the assailants invaded the community and pursued villagers who had been hiding in nearby bushes to escape previous attacks. The bandits reportedly woke those taking refuge in the forest before forcibly taking away dozens of people, including women and children.
Residents disclosed that Tsamaye had been under repeated attacks in recent months, forcing many inhabitants to abandon their homes at night and sleep in surrounding bushes for safety. However, the latest assault extended into those hideouts, leaving many with nowhere else to run.
The tragedy worsened as frightened residents attempted to flee across a nearby river. A boat carrying about 25 people reportedly capsized during the escape, resulting in the deaths of 18 passengers, while only eight survivors were rescued.
A resident, who spoke anonymously, said security personnel stationed in the area were unable to repel the attackers because the bandits were heavily armed.
According to the witness, local authorities had been alerted before the attack escalated, but no reinforcements arrived until after the gunmen had left the community.
The resident alleged that security operatives on the ground sought cover during the invasion, citing the superior firepower of the attackers.
The coordinated assault has left Tsamaye virtually abandoned, with reports indicating that fewer than 20 people now remain in the village.
Families are also facing uncertainty over the fate of missing relatives. According to residents, calls made to some missing persons’ mobile phones have allegedly been answered by the kidnappers, confirming that some victims were abducted.
Others, however, remain unaccounted for, leaving relatives unsure whether they drowned while fleeing, were struck by bullets during the attack, or were taken away by the gunmen.
The latest incident underscores the worsening security situation in parts of Sokoto State, where communities continue to face repeated attacks, kidnappings and mass displacement despite ongoing military operations.
