Ten policemen and two civilians were killed when security operatives engaged heavily armed terrorists in a fierce gun battle in Kebbi State.
The confrontation occurred on Monday, August 10, 2026, along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area, after police operatives intercepted suspected terrorists reportedly moving between Zamfara and Kebbi states.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, confirmed the incident in a statement on Tuesday, saying the encounter began at about 9:25 a.m.
According to the police, the security operatives engaged the terrorists in a gun duel, killing 17 members of the group and destroying four motorcycles belonging to them.
However, the police also suffered heavy casualties, with 10 personnel killed and two others sustaining injuries.
“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.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, expressed grief over the deaths of the officers and commiserated with their families and loved ones.
Disu described the incident as a painful loss to the Nigeria Police Force and the country, noting that the officers paid the ultimate price in the course of protecting Nigerians.
The remains of the fallen officers have been conveyed to Birnin Kebbi, while the two injured personnel are receiving medical attention.
The police said additional security personnel had been deployed to the area as operations were intensified to track fleeing members of the terrorist group.
“The area has been brought under control, with additional personnel deployed to sustain operations and pursue fleeing elements of the criminal group,” the police said.
The Force also assured the families of the deceased and injured personnel of continued support, while pledging to sustain operations aimed at bringing the fleeing suspects to justice.
The latest incident highlights the persistent security challenges confronting communities around the Kebbi-Zamfara border, where armed groups have continued to exploit difficult terrain and interstate routes for movement.
