Accidental discharge kills Sokoto guard member after kidnap rescue

A Sokoto State Community Guard Corps operative has reportedly lost his life due to an accidental discharge shortly after participating in a joint operation that rescued 66 kidnap victims in the state.

The operation, led by the Nigerian Army, was conducted on Monday in Tidibali Forest, located in the eastern part of Sokoto State.

Confirming the incident on Wednesday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Colonel Ahmed Usman (retd.), told The PUNCH that the tragedy occurred when the operative’s gun was accidentally fired.

Usman said,  “The incident happened shortly after they returned to their base from the operation.

“He was handling his gun when it accidentally discharged and shot him. Unfortunately, he died shortly afterwards.”

Colonel Usman commended the progress of the ongoing operation, which is part of the state government’s efforts to combat banditry and other criminal activities.

“So far, 66 kidnap victims have been rescued, and several bandits have been neutralized during the operation,” he said.

He added that the state government remains committed to eradicating banditry in Sokoto, emphasizing that the operation will continue until the region is free of criminal elements.

The Sokoto State Community Guard Corps has been actively involved in supporting security agencies in tackling insecurity in the state, particularly in remote areas affected by banditry and kidnapping.

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]