Armed bandits have abducted 49 residents of Makuwana village in SabonBirnin Local Council of Sokoto State, while two people drowned as they attempted to flee the assault.

The village head, Alhaji Salisu Ibrahim, disclosed the incident during a condolence visit by the Deputy Governor, Idris Mohammed Gobir, following the twin tragedies of banditry and flooding that recently struck the area.

Ibrahim said Makuwana had suffered no fewer than three bandit attacks within a week, adding that the latest invasion forced some villagers to run into a river, where two drowned. He confirmed that the attackers whisked away at least 49 people.

He further lamented that many residents also lost their property in the flood that submerged parts of the community. “As Muslims, we have accepted both incidents in good faith. We are now appealing to the state government to come to our aid,” he said.

In his remarks, Deputy Governor Gobir expressed sympathy with the community and promised that the government would consider constructing an alternative road to SabonBirni, after floodwaters washed away a major route.

Gobir assured that the state would continue supporting security agencies in the fight against banditry and urged residents to sustain prayers for peace and stability.

He prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives.