Fear grips Sokoto community as bandits threaten fresh attack, demand N40m levy

Residents of Kebbe town in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State are facing increased security concerns following an alleged N40 million levy imposed by suspected bandits.

The gunmen reportedly threatened to kill residents and set the town on fire if the money was not paid before the deadline they gave.

According to information shared by Crisis Reporter Bakastine on his X handle, the bandits reportedly sent their demand through a farmer.

The farmer was said to have delivered a telephone handset to the District Head of Kebbe, Mallam Lawal Labbo, through which the demand was communicated.

The development has reportedly raised fears among residents as the community awaits further action from the security authorities.

The bandits reportedly initially gave the community five days to raise the money but later extended the deadline to seven days following appeals from residents.

The telephone was subsequently handed over to the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, in the area.

The gunmen allegedly warned that the phone must remain charged and reachable, threatening to attack the town if their calls were not answered.

Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmed Rufai, said the command was aware of the reported threat and had commenced efforts to address the situation.

“We are aware of the information and we, together with our Anti-Kidnapping Unit, AKU, are already working on the information,” Rufai said.

He added that the bandits had reportedly given the community an ultimatum to raise the N40 million.

The development has heightened fears among residents as the reported deadline approaches, amid concerns over a possible attack if the demand is not met.

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