Police eliminate 17 bandits, lose 10 officers in Kebbi gun battle

Ten police officers and at least 17 bandits have been killed during a gun battle at Makuku village in Zuru Emirate, along the Kebbi-Zamfara border.

The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the casualties on Tuesday, saying several other personnel were injured during the encounter.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, said the clash occurred after armed bandits invaded the community with the intention of attacking and possibly abducting residents.

According to him, the police, acting on credible intelligence, swiftly deployed armed mobile personnel to the area, where they engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle.

Usman said the confrontation resulted in heavy casualties on both sides, with 10 police officers killed and several others injured.

“Yes, there was a gunfight between our men and bandits at Makuku village and, tragically, we lost 10 officers while we killed over 17 bandits,” Usman said.

He added that the injured officers were receiving treatment at a health facility.

The police spokesman commended the officers who died in the line of duty, saying their sacrifice would not be in vain.

He also assured that the wounded personnel would receive the necessary medical attention and support.

The Kebbi State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting residents and combating banditry and other criminal activities across the state.