Sokoto police command has said that a new armed group called ‘Lakurawas’ is operating in five LGAs of the state.
Gatekeepers News reports that police spokesman in the state, Ahmed Rufai revealed this to the press, noting that members of the group wield sophisticated weapons and operate in Gudu, Tangaza, Binji, Illeila, and one other LGA.
He said, “They have been in those areas for some years now. They are armed with weapons and part of their agenda is to impose their own kind of religious practice on the people.”
“They even attack suspected bandits in the areas, according to information available to us. They claim to be working against illegalities.”
Deputy Governor of the state, Idris Gobir on Tuesday, raised concerns over the emergence of a criminal group in the state.
Gobir noted that the group is faith-based, and security agencies are working to address the threats.
He said, “An assessment carried out indicated that the group possessed sophisticated weapons and their criminal activities were observed in about five local government areas in the state.”
“The sad development is happening at a time the state is grappling with banditry.”
“The state government has been working closely with federal security agencies to address numerous security threats to lives and properties of the people of the state.”
Additionally, Director of Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba confirmed the emergence of the group in north-western Nigeria while briefing the press on operations of the military on Thursday in Abuja.
Buba revealed the new terror group emerged from Republic of Niger after the coup that led to the breakdown of military cooperation between Nigeria and Niger.
He said the terrorists began making inroads into Sokoto and Kebbi states from Niger Republic and Mali axis, especially after the coup in Niger Republic.
