Police in Sokoto have raised its security alert level in Kebbe Local Government Area following intelligence reports of a planned attack by suspected bandits over unpaid N40million levy.
Police disclosed the development on Thursday, saying it had intensified security measures to protect residents and prevent any attack on the community.
Confirming the security alert, State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmed Rufai, said the command was aware of the imminent threat and had placed the area on red alert.
“Yes, the command is aware of the imminent threat. The command is on red alert and we will never rest on our oars to fully protect the lives and properties of all the law-abiding residents of Sokoto State,” Rufai added.
Suspected bandits had demanded a N40 million levy from residents of Kebbe town and allegedly threatened to kill residents and burn the town if the money was not paid.
Local sources said the bandits had reportedly fixed Friday for the planned attack, while also alleging that the group was mobilising and contacting other criminal elements for reinforcement.
The reported threat comes about two weeks after a deadly bandit attack on Kebbe and neighbouring communities reportedly left several people dead and scores abducted.
