The Nigeria Police Force has honoured 10 officers who died during a deadly encounter with suspected bandits in Kebbi State.
The fallen officers were members of the Special Intervention Squad deployed to confront armed criminals.
They lost their lives on August 10, 2026, during an operation along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area.
The police team reportedly intercepted suspected bandits moving between Zamfara and Kebbi states.
A fierce exchange followed, leaving 10 officers and two civilians dead. Two other officers also sustained injuries.
Despite the losses, police said the operation weakened the attackers. At least 17 suspected bandits were reportedly neutralised, while four motorcycles were destroyed.
Speaking at a memorial parade in Abuja Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu praised the fallen officers for their service.
He said their sacrifice reflected the risks faced by police personnel while protecting Nigerians.
According to him, “behind every fallen officer is a family that has lost a husband, father, son, brother or loved one we will not abandon the bereaved families.
Disu assured the families that the police would continue supporting them. He also promised that their sacrifices would remain remembered.
The IGP said the Nigeria Police Force would continue working with other security agencies to tackle banditry and terrorism.
He also warned criminals that the police would remain determined to protect communities across the country.
According to him, “we shall not be intimidated, we shall not relent, and we shall not allow the sacrifices of our fallen heroes to be in vain,”
However, Disu urged officers and citizens to remain committed to building a safer country.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the fallen officers and strength for their families.
