The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has confirmed the death of ten officers during an encounter with what it described as a heavily armed group of suspected bandits along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area, Kebbi State.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, made this known in a statement on Tuesday, noting that at about 0925hrs on Monday, August 10, 2026, police operatives intercepted and engaged the suspected bandits as they moved between Zamfara and Kebbi States.
“At least 17 suspected bandits were neutralised, while four motorcycles belonging to the attackers were destroyed.
“Tragically, ten police personnel lost their lives in the encounter, while two others sustained injuries and are receiving medical attention. Two civilians also lost their lives during the engagement,” the statement said.
Commenting on the incident, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, expressed grief over the loss and extended his condolences to the families and loved ones of the fallen officers.
IGP Disu described their deaths as a painful loss to the Force and the nation, noting that they paid the ultimate price while defending the people they swore to protect.
He assured the families that their sacrifice would never be forgotten and would continue to be honoured by the Force.
The spokesperson stated that the remains of the fallen officers had been conveyed to Birnin Kebbi, while the 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 NPF stressed that it remained deeply mindful of the pain and loss suffered by the families of the fallen officers.
The Force added that it would continue to stand with the bereaved families and provide every necessary support to them and the injured personnel, while honouring the memory and sacrifice of the fallen heroes through sustained efforts to bring the fleeing suspects to justice.
