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From Olanrewaju Lawal
Ten police officers and two civilians were killed during a fierce gun battle with suspected bandits along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area, Kebbi State.
It was gathered that the incident happened on Sunday which has thrown the community into mourning and panicking.
The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, said operatives intercepted a large group of armed bandits moving between Zamfara and Kebbi States.
According to him, “On 10/08/2026 at about 0925hrs, our men intercepted and engaged a heavily armed group of suspected bandits moving between Zamfara and Kebbi States along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area,” SP Usman stated.
“Several of the attackers were neutralized, with at least 17 suspected bandits so far assessed to have been neutralized. Four motorcycles belonging to the attackers were also burnt during the encounter, and the casualty figure remains subject to further verification,” he added.
The police spokesman described the losses suffered by security forces as painful.
“Tragically, we lost ten gallant Police personnel in the engagement, while two others sustained injuries and are receiving medical attention. Two civilians also lost their lives during the encounter,” he said.
“Our fallen personnel fought with exceptional courage and professionalism in the line of duty, making the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the people and the State. Their bravery, service and sacrifice will be duly honoured and will not be forgotten,” SP Usman stated.
He said the command’s immediate focus was on supporting victims’ families and pursuing fleeing attackers.
“Our immediate priority remains supporting the affected families, caring for the wounded and sustaining follow-up operations against fleeing elements. Further details will be communicated as they are verified,” he added.
A resident of Makuku village who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed that a heavy exchange of fire occurred in the area.
“The attack happened here. There was serious shooting between the bandits and security personnel. I cannot confirm the exact number of people who died, but I saw many dead bodies,” the resident said.
“Some of the injured personnel were taken to the hospital for treatment. The bandits also suffered casualties during the fight,” he added.
The incident has thrown Makuku Ward and the entire Sakaba LGA into mourning, with calls for prayers and government support for bereaved families.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the people of Makuku Ward, Sakaba LGA, over this tragic incident that led to the loss of lives of security personnel and civilians,” the resident said.
“This is a great loss that affects everyone, especially the families of those who lost their lives, and the entire people of Makuku and Sakaba as a whole. At this moment of grief, we stand with them in prayers and sympathy,” he stated.
“As an indigene of Makuku, I express our profound concern over this unfortunate incident. We pray to Almighty Allah to forgive those who have passed away, have mercy on them, grant them Jannatul Firdaus, and give their families the fortitude to bear this loss,” he said.
“We also pray that Allah continues to protect our security personnel and civilians, grant our security forces the courage and victory to safeguard lives, and bring an end to insecurity and violence in our area and Nigeria as a whole,” he added.
Security operations in the border area are ongoing as authorities work to track down remaining members of the bandit group.
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