Abayomi Susan
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has confirmed the death of 10 police officers during an encounter with suspected bandits in the Rafin Makuku area of Sakaba Local Government Area, Kebbi State.
The incident occurred at about 9:25 a.m. on Monday, August 10, 2026, when police operatives engaged the suspected bandits reportedly moving between Zamfara and Kebbi states.
According to the NPF, 17 suspected bandits were neutralised, while four motorcycles belonging to the attackers were destroyed. Two other police officers were injured and are receiving medical treatment, while two civilians also lost their lives during the encounter.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and condoled with the families of the fallen officers, describing their sacrifice as a painful loss to the Force and the nation.
The remains of the officers have been taken to Birnin Kebbi, while security has been reinforced in the area. Additional personnel have also been deployed to continue operations and pursue fleeing members of the criminal group.
The Force assured the bereaved families and injured officers of continued support, while vowing to sustain efforts to bring the fleeing suspects to justice.
