Bandits kill driver, two passengers on Sokoto road

— Police confirm three deaths in attack on Marnona-Isa route

By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO — Suspected bandits have killed a driver and two passengers after attacking a vehicle conveying commuters along the Marnona-Isa Road in Sokoto State.

The attack occurred on Wednesday evening at Kunawa village in Goronyo Local Government Area, when the assailants reportedly intercepted the vehicle travelling from Sokoto metropolis towards Isa Local Government Area and opened fire on its occupants.

The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the incident through its spokesperson, DSP Ahmed Rufai.

“A driver and two others were killed by bandits at Kunawa village, Goronyo Local Government Area, along the Marnona-Isa Road,” Rufai said.

The identities of the deceased had yet to be officially disclosed at the time of filing this report. The police spokesperson also did not provide details about the number of assailants involved or any arrests made in connection with the attack.

There were unconfirmed reports that some passengers travelling along the route might have been among the 3,000 people reportedly recruited by the Sokoto State Government and invited for further screening and collection of their documents.

However, there was no official confirmation that any of the victims belonged to the group.

The killings have heightened concerns over the safety of motorists and passengers travelling between Sokoto metropolis and other parts of the state, particularly along routes passing through isolated communities.

The attack also underscores the risks faced by residents whose daily activities, official engagements and other commitments require them to travel between communities.

The police had yet to release further information on possible security operations linked to the incident as of the time of filing this report.

The latest killings come amid persistent concerns over banditry in parts of Sokoto State, where attacks on communities and travellers have threatened lives, disrupted movement and heightened fears among residents.

The incident is likely to renew calls for stronger security measures, including improved patrols and better protection for commuters along vulnerable highways.