Suspected bandits have attacked Dukura community in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State, killing two people and rustling livestock and motorcycles belonging to residents.
The attack occurred on Monday morning when the armed men reportedly blocked a road linking communities in the area to Tambuwal Market.
According to a report by Punch, the attackers seized cows, camels, sheep and motorcycles belonging to some commercial motorcycle operators before security personnel arrived at the scene.
The Sokoto State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmed Rufai, confirmed the incident, saying the command received information about the attack and immediately deployed personnel to the area.
Rufai said the police engaged the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to retreat.
He, however, confirmed that two people had already been killed before the arrival of the police.
The latest incident has reportedly heightened tension in Dukura, Dalijan and other communities within Girkau Ward, including Zugu, Indire, Mazoji, Tungar Kabawa, Runtuwa, Jabga and Sabon Garin Zugu.
The attack comes amid continuing security concerns in Kebbe Local Government Area, where communities have experienced previous incidents involving killings, abductions and livestock rustling. Earlier in September, police confirmed that five people were killed and three others injured in an attack on Girkau and surrounding communities in the same local government area.
Police authorities said efforts were ongoing to obtain further details about the latest incident and strengthen security in the affected communities.
Kebbe Local Government includes Dukura and several other communities in the area, according to the Sokoto State Government.