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Ten police officers have been killed after gunmen attacked a security camp at Makuku in Sakaba LGA of Kebbi State on Monday.
In a statement, Ani Iniedu, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) public relations officer, said the attack occurred at about 6am when more than 200 armed bandits riding motorcycles stormed the camp.
Iniedu said at least 17 of the assailants were also killed during the gun battle.
“On receipt of the distress call, the Commissioner of Police, Kebbi State Command, immediately mobilised and deployed reinforcements, which were further supported by units of the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Air Force drawn from within Kebbi and Katsina States,” the statement reads.
“A fierce exchange of gunfire lasting over two hours ensued between security forces and the attackers.
“In the course of the operation, the Force sadly lost ten (10) personnel in the line of duty, while one vigilante member and two civilians also lost their lives in the attack.
“The remains of the fallen officers have been recovered and deposited at a mortuary in Birnin Kebbi. Next of kin are being duly notified, and further personal details are being withheld out of respect for the families at this time.
“The bandits suffered significant losses during the engagement, with at least seventeen (17) attackers believed to have been neutralised and several of their motorcycles destroyed by security forces before they fled the area, with surviving accomplices observed conveying the bodies away on motorcycles as they retreated.”
Iniedu said Tunji Disu, inspector-general of police, commended the officers for their gallantry and sacrifice.
Disu directed the immediate reinforcement of the security architecture across Sakaba LGA and neighbouring communities to prevent further attacks.
Iniedu said the NPF extended its condolences to the families of the officers, the vigilance group member and civilians killed in the attack.
“The Nigeria Police Force extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the officers, the vigilante member, and the civilians who lost their lives, and assures them of full welfare support in line with Force policy,” the statement reads.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm and to continue supporting security agencies with credible information.
“The Force reaffirms its commitment to protecting lives and property across the country and will not relent in its operations against banditry and armed criminality.”
