A coordinated operation involving Nigerian and Nigerien soldiers, as well as local vigilantes has foiled a planned bandit attack on Abara village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, a security analyst, Bakatsine, has reported.
Posting on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Bakatsine said the incident occurred late Saturday night into the early hours of Sunday, January 11, 2026, when suspected bandits riding about six motorcycles attempted to invade Abara village.
According to the analyst, the attackers abandoned their motorcycles along the main road and crossed into the village on foot, unaware that Nigerian troops had already received actionable intelligence about the planned attack.
“Soldiers immediately moved into Abara to repel the attack, while local vigilantes from Abara and Kyalkyale communities also mobilised to support the operation,” Bakatsine stated.
He explained that sustained gunfire from multiple directions forced the bandits to flee into nearby farmlands. However, in their attempt to escape, the suspects reportedly returned to where they had parked their motorcycles.
“Unknown to them, Nigerien troops on patrol had earlier discovered the motorcycles and taken strategic positions around the area. When the bandits arrived, the Nigerien soldiers opened fire, killing all of them on the spot,” he said.
Bakatsine further disclosed that by Sunday morning, a suspected surviving bandit was arrested in Magajin Dawaki village, also in Sabon Birni LGA.
“The suspect allegedly jumped into an empty house, removed his combat clothing, and wore the homeowner’s traditional outfit in an attempt to blend in. When the owner returned and discovered him, the suspect begged not to be handed over to vigilantes and even offered his phone, but he was immediately arrested and handed over to security operatives,” the analyst added.
He noted that the joint Nigeria–Niger operation averted what could have been a deadly raid on civilians.
“This operation highlights the effectiveness of cross-border military cooperation and community vigilance. Kudos to the Nigerian and Nigerien soldiers, as well as the local vigilantes, for their swift action and bravery in protecting Abara and surrounding communities,” Bakatsine said.
Nigerian, Nigerien troops repel bandits attack in Sokoto, kill suspects in joint operation
