The Nigeria Police Force has neutralised at least 17 suspected bandits during a fierce encounter in Kebbi State, but lost 10 personnel in the operation.
The encounter occurred at about 9:25 a.m. on Monday, August 10, 2026, when police operatives intercepted a heavily armed group of suspected bandits along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area of the state.
The suspected bandits were reportedly moving between Zamfara and Kebbi states when the police operatives engaged them in a gun battle.
According to an official statement signed by CSP Ani Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer, 17 suspected bandits were neutralised during the encounter, while four motorcycles belonging to the attackers were destroyed.
However, 10 police personnel were killed during the confrontation, while two others sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
Two civilians also lost their lives in the engagement.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, expressed profound grief over the loss of the personnel and commiserated with their families and loved ones.
Disu described the deaths as a painful loss to the Force and the nation, noting that the officers paid the ultimate price while defending the people they swore to protect.
He assured the families of the fallen personnel that their sacrifices would not be forgotten and would continue to be honoured by the Nigeria Police Force.
The remains of the deceased officers have been conveyed to Birnin Kebbi, while the affected area has been brought under control.
The Police said additional personnel have been deployed to reinforce security in the area, sustain operations and pursue fleeing members of the criminal group.
The Force also assured the bereaved families and injured personnel of its continued support, while vowing to sustain the operation until the fleeing suspects are brought to justice.
