The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the death of 10 personnel during an encounter with a heavily armed group of suspected bandits in Kebbi State.
The incident occurred along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area at about 9:25 a.m. Monday as police operatives intercepted the suspected bandits reportedly moving between Zamfara and Kebbi states.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, in a statement made available to journalists disclosed that at least 17 suspected bandits were neutralized 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,” he said. He added that two civilians also died during the engagement.
Iniedu quoted the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan-Disu, as expressing profound grief over the loss and extending his condolences to the families and loved ones of the fallen personnel.
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The IGP described the deaths as a painful loss to the Nigeria Police Force and the nation, saying the personnel paid the ultimate price while defending the people they swore to protect.
He assured the families of the deceased that their sacrifices would not be forgotten and would continue to be honoured by the force.
Iniedu said the remains of the fallen personnel had been conveyed to Birnin Kebbi, while the affected area had been brought under control.
He added that security had been reinforced, with additional personnel deployed to sustain operations and pursue fleeing members of the criminal group.
The IGP said the police remained mindful of the pain suffered by the families of the deceased and pledged that the force would provide the necessary support to them and the injured personnel.
Iniedu restated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to honouring the memory and sacrifices of the fallen personnel by sustaining operations to apprehend the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.
