Police honour 10 officers who died during gun battle with bandits in Kebbi

Inspector-General of Police Honors Fallen Officers in Kebbi Conflict

ABUJA — Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu pledged on Monday that the families of police officers killed during a recent confrontation with bandits in Kebbi State will be remembered and supported. His remarks came during a Memorial Parade at the Force Headquarters honoring ten officers of the Special Intervention Squad who lost their lives.

The officers were engaged in a deadly shootout with armed assailants along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area on August 10, 2026. They were reportedly attempting to intercept a group of heavily armed bandits when they were attacked, resulting in their deaths and injuries to two other officers. Tragically, two civilians were also killed in the exchange.

During the tribute, Disu noted that the officers’ sacrifices contributed to the neutralization of 17 suspected bandits and the destruction of four motorcycles used by the attackers. “These gallant officers died fulfilling their oath to serve, protect, and defend lives and property,” he stated. “Their sacrifice is a reminder that police officers across Nigeria face danger daily so that citizens can live with a measure of safety and peace.”

He extended condolences to the families of the fallen officers, emphasizing that the police force would support them in their grieving. “We will not abandon you,” Disu said. “The Force remains committed to ensuring that your loved ones’ sacrifices are never forgotten.”

The Inspector-General urged the public to recall the bravery of these officers and the thousands of police personnel who continue to serve under similar risks nationwide. “The security of our nation comes at a cost, often borne by those who willingly place their lives on the line,” he added.

Disu assured citizens that the Nigeria Police Force would remain steadfast in its duty to protect lives and property. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to collaborate with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to combat banditry and criminality. “We will not be intimidated. We will not relent, and we will ensure the sacrifices of our heroes are honored through ongoing efforts against crime,” he stated.

In a related address, CP Abayomi Shogunle, Commissioner of Police for the Special Intervention Squad, called on the Inspector-General to ensure ongoing support for the families of the deceased officers, framing such support as crucial for maintaining morale among current personnel. He commended the courage of the fallen officers, highlighting their resilience during the attack.

“The men stood their ground against overwhelming odds,” Shogunle said. “Their dedication resulted in significant losses for the terrorists, whose bodies continue to be discovered in the area.”

He appealed for sustained attention to the families left behind, expressing the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by the officers in the line of duty. “We cannot allow the morale of these men and women to diminish,” he emphasized.

The ceremony served as a solemn reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement in Nigeria, as both leaders expressed a collective commitment to honor the fallen through continued vigilance and action against those who threaten peace and security.

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