Joint Security Forces Neutralize Suspected Bandit in Kebbi State
In a significant development in the fight against banditry, security forces and local vigilantes in Kebbi State have successfully neutralized a suspected member of the infamous Lakurawa gang. This occurred during a fierce gun battle in Yeldu District, within the Arewa Local Government Area.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafi’u Abubakar, the incident took place on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. During this time, heavily armed bandits launched an attack on Kwagware village, where they stole several cows and robbed residents of their mobile phones.
Swift Response from Security Forces
Acting on the report, the Divisional Police Officer in Yeldu led a combined team of officers and local vigilantes in a hot pursuit of the attackers. The team engaged the bandits in a violent gunfight, resulting in the death of one suspected bandit. Others managed to flee into the forest, sustaining gunshot wounds in the process.
The police recovered a Tecno handset that was believed to have been stolen from the villagers during the attack. Additionally, an unregistered motorcycle belonging to the bandits was set ablaze by jubilant residents, signaling their relief and anger at the ongoing threat.
Deployment of Additional Security Units
Following the operation, the Commissioner of Police, Bello M. Sani, ordered the immediate deployment of additional tactical units, military personnel, and vigilante groups to the area. This move aims to ensure stability, prevent any potential reprisals, and track down the remaining members of the gang who escaped.
Sani praised the bravery of the security operatives and reiterated the command’s commitment to intensifying its efforts against criminal gangs across the state. “We will continue to sustain our synergy with the military and local vigilantes to ensure the total elimination of criminal elements from Kebbi State,” he declared.
Ongoing Efforts to Secure Rural Communities
This operation represents another successful step in the ongoing joint security initiatives aimed at securing rural communities and restoring peace in areas prone to banditry. The collaboration between the police, military, and local vigilantes has proven effective in curbing the activities of these criminal groups.
Key actions taken during the operation include:
- The swift response from the Divisional Police Officer, leading a coordinated effort with local vigilantes.
- The engagement in a gunfight that resulted in the death of one suspect and injuries to others.
- The recovery of stolen property, including a mobile phone and an unregistered motorcycle.
- The deployment of additional security units to maintain order and continue the hunt for fugitives.
Future Steps and Commitment
The police have emphasized the importance of maintaining this level of cooperation with the military and local communities. By working together, they aim to create a safer environment for residents and reduce the influence of criminal gangs in the region.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to provide further updates on the progress of the operation and any new developments related to the Lakurawa gang. The community remains hopeful that these efforts will lead to long-term stability and peace in Kebbi State.