While seven people were rescued alive, at least 18 others remain missing and are feared dead as frantic search efforts continue.
At least 18 residents of Tsamaye community in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State are feared to have drowned after overloaded boats capsized as they desperately fled a deadly bandit attack that also left 37 people kidnapped and thousands displaced.
The attack, launched by heavily armed bandits on Monday night, lasted until the early hours of Tuesday, leaving a trail of death and destruction across the community.
Residents said panic erupted as families fled towards a nearby river after receiving reports that the gunmen were closing in. In the chaos, overloaded boats carrying terrified villagers — mostly women and children—capsized, throwing about 25 passengers into the water.
While seven people were rescued alive, at least 18 others remain missing and are feared dead as frantic search efforts continue.
