Tragedy struck in Sokoto State on Thursday night as several residents fleeing a bandit attack reportedly drowned after their boat capsized.

 

According to reports, the victims, whose community has suffered repeated assaults by armed bandits, attempted to escape the latest onslaught by crossing a river. However, their boat struck a culvert and overturned, throwing the passengers into the water.

 

As of the time of filing this report, the exact number of casualties remains unclear. Rescue operations were still ongoing, with emergency teams and local divers working to recover bodies and save possible survivors.

 

The incident comes amid a series of similar tragedies in the state. On August 29, a boat capsized in Shagari Local Government Area, leaving many passengers missing. Earlier, on August 18, another boat mishap claimed at least three lives and left more than 20 people unaccounted for.

 

Sokoto is among the northern states repeatedly targeted by armed bandits, whose relentless attacks have forced many residents to flee their homes in search of safety.