The attack happened on Sunday afternoon, around 3:00 p.m., according to a local source who spoke on condition of anonymity. The source said the gunmen opened fire on people working in the fields, and that no fewer than eight farmers were killed while at least five others sustained gunshot injuries. "The bandits came around 3:00 p.m. and started shooting at people. No fewer than eight farmers were killed, while at least five others sustained gunshot injuries," the source said.
The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the incident. DSP Ahmed Rufai told the reporter the command was aware and that investigators were gathering information. He said, "Yes, we are aware of the attack, 8 farmers were killed while another five were injured. We will make it public once we are done with the information being gathered on it,"
The anonymous source alleged the assault was a reprisal for recent security operations that killed members of the bandit group. "We believe this was a retaliatory attack because some members of the group were killed by security personnel in the last few days," the source said.
The killings have amplified alarm among residents of Ghandi and neighbouring communities, especially farmers who rely on daytime access to farmlands. Local accounts describe a scene of panic after the assailants left the area, and survivors have been left to contend with both physical injuries and the prospect of further violence.
Police say they are still compiling details and will release findings when their information gathering is complete. For now, the incident adds to a string of attacks that have stressed security in parts of the state and deepened concern among rural communities dependent on agriculture for their livelihoods.
