The government of Turkey on Tuesday condemned a terrorist attack in Sokot0 state that left dozens of people dead.
1st News reports that the attack was allegedly perpetrated by bandits who stormed the market in their numbers.
Reports indicate that the bandits had surrounded the market which was filled with traders and shoppers; proceeding to open fire sporadically, leaving many dead. Authorities say about 30 were killed but eyewitnesses put the figure at almost double that amount.
“We are deeply saddened by the news that at least 43 people lost their lives and many people were wounded during a terrorist attack in a crowded bazaar area on 18 October 2021 in the Goronyo region located in Sokoto state of Nigeria,” a Turkey Foreign Ministry statement said.
“We strongly condemn this heinous terrorist attack, extend our sincere condolences to the families of those who lost their lives; as well as to the friendly and brotherly people and Government of Nigeria and wish a speedy recovery to the injured,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has reacted to the massacre by sending a stern warning to bandits on their imminent end.
Buhari made this known in a statement in Abuja on Monday, October 18, 2021.
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1st News reports that the President was reacting to the bloody massacre of over 30 residents at a crowded market in Sokoto. The incident, which occurred on Sunday evening, had seen bandits surround the market; opening fire sporadically in all directions. The death toll has been put conservatively at 30 but eyewitnesses say many more were killed.
In a statement signed by Buhari, Malam Garba Shehu; the President’s spokesman, said the president has warned that the days of the bandits are indeed numbered; notably because the military capabilities of the armed forces are being boosted by the acquisition and deployment of advanced equipment.
“The bandits are living in fool’s paradise of invincibility. But reality will soon dawn on them harder than ever before. The bandits are currently under desperate pressures because of the intense and sustained air and ground operations against them in their hideouts by our security forces.
“The cowardly attacks on innocent people by the bandits show a rearguard action of criminals under pressure.”
