ASP killed as security operatives clash with terrorists in Sokoto

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Bala Wakili, has been killed during a fierce gun battle between a joint security team and suspected bandits in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The late officer, who was attached to the Kebbe Police Division, lost his life while responding to an attack by armed bandits who reportedly invaded Girkau and Zugu villages on Monday afternoon.

Sources said the attackers stormed the communities at about 4 p.m., rustling an unspecified number of livestock before attempting to flee the area.

Acting on intelligence, a joint security team comprising personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army and the Sokoto Community Guard Corps laid an ambush for the fleeing bandits as they exited Zugu village.

The operation, however, escalated into a fierce gun battle that reportedly lasted for more than one hour.

According to a security source, the suspected bandits, who were said to be heavily armed and operating in large numbers, eventually overpowered the security operatives.

“The security operatives engaged the bandits in a fierce exchange of fire, but the attackers were in large numbers. They eventually overpowered the team, killed ASP Bala Wakili and set ablaze two patrol vehicles—one belonging to the police and the other to the Sokoto Community Guard Corps,” the source said.

Another security operative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the incident, saying the body of the slain officer was recovered after the encounter and buried on Tuesday.

Confirming the attack, the spokesman of the Sokoto State Police Command, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ahmad Rufa’i, said a police officer had “paid the supreme price” in the line of duty while confronting the criminals.

He disclosed that additional security personnel had been deployed to the affected communities to reinforce ongoing operations and reassure residents.

Rufa’i said the security situation in the area had been brought under control, adding that security agencies had intensified efforts to track down the attackers and prevent further assaults.

The killing of ASP Wakili underscores the persistent security challenges facing parts of Sokoto State, where security forces have stepped up operations against bandit groups responsible for attacks on rural communities, cattle rustling and other violent crimes.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and security in the affected communities.