The Sokoto State Police Command has confirmed the killing of four persons and abduction of 18 others in Giyawa village, Goronyo Local Government Area of the state.

Spokesman of the Command, ASP Ahmed Rufai, who confirmed the incident, said the assailants also carted away valuables including livestock.

According to Rufai, seven of the abducted victims later escaped and returned to the community.

However, he disclosed that many residents have fled the community.

Rufai assured that operatives of the Command are on the trail of the assailants, adding that efforts are being made to ensure that normalcy is restored in the community.

Although the Police maintained that only 11 persons are still being held by the bandits, a source in the community alleged that over 30 persons were abducted.