Kebbi attack: Police confirm death of 10 officers, 17 bandits killed

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has confirmed that 10 of its personnel were killed during an encounter with suspected bandits in Kebbi State.

The incident occurred on Monday along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area of the state.

The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday.

Iniedu said the police operatives engaged the suspected bandits at about 9:25 a.m. after intercepting them while they were moving between Zamfara and Kebbi.

He said 17 suspected bandits were neutralised during the encounter, while four motorcycles belonging to the attackers were destroyed.

“Tragically, 10 police personnel lost their lives in the encounter, while two others sustained injuries and are receiving medical attention.

“Additionally, two civilians also lost their lives during the engagement,” he said.

The Force PRO quoted the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan-Disu, as expressing deep grief over the death of the officers and extending condolences to their families and loved ones.

The IGP described the incident as a painful loss to the police and the nation, noting that the officers died while carrying out their duty to protect citizens.

He assured the families of the deceased that their sacrifices would not be forgotten and would continue to be honoured by the Nigeria Police Force.

Iniedu said the remains of the fallen officers had been taken to Birnin Kebbi, while the affected area had been brought under control.

He added that security had been reinforced with the deployment of additional personnel to sustain operations and pursue fleeing members of the criminal group.

The IGP said the police remained committed to supporting the bereaved families and providing necessary assistance to the injured officers.

He also reaffirmed the force’s determination to honour the fallen officers by sustaining operations aimed at apprehending the fleeing suspects and bringing them to justice.