The Sokoto State Police Command has uncovered a new terrorist group, known locally as ‘Lakurawas,’ believed to be operating across five local government areas (LGAs) in the state. Authorities report that the group, armed with sophisticated weapons, has been terrorizing communities in Gudu, Tangaza, Binji, Illela, and a yet-to-be-disclosed area.
State Police spokesperson, Rufai, explained that the group has been entrenched in these regions for several years, posing a significant threat to local safety. “They’re armed with advanced weaponry and are actively imposing their own religious beliefs on local communities,” he stated.
The group’s presence has added to the complex security challenges in Sokoto, where they reportedly also clash with suspected bandits. “We’ve received reports indicating that the group targets not only civilians but also individuals they suspect of illegal activities,” Rufai added, highlighting the intricate nature of the emerging security threat.
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State Deputy Governor Gobir has voiced serious concerns about the rise of this group. “This is a faith-based organization with a criminal agenda, wielding advanced weaponry and operating across multiple LGAs,” he said. “The state government is working closely with federal security forces to curb their activities and restore safety.”
Gobir further emphasized the toll that the group’s presence has taken on local communities, adding, “This issue compounds the ongoing banditry crisis, straining our resources and endangering lives and property.”
The discovery comes amid rising insecurity across the region, as both federal and state governments face escalating threats from organized crime and terror groups.
