Seventeen suspected bandits were killed during a fierce confrontation with security operatives in Makuku village, Zuru Emirate, near the Kebbi-Zamfara border, the Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed.
The clash occurred after the armed men reportedly invaded the community with plans to attack residents and possibly carry out abductions.
The police, acting on credible intelligence about the planned attack, mobilised an armed mobile police unit to the area, where they engaged the bandits in a prolonged gun battle.
The Command’s spokesperson, SP Bashir Usman, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday.
He said at least 17 bandits were neutralised during the encounter, while several others sustained gunshot injuries and fled the area.
However, the security operation also resulted in significant casualties among the police personnel, with 10 officers reportedly killed during the exchange of fire.
Usman added that some other officers sustained various degrees of injuries and were receiving treatment at a medical facility.
Confirming the incident, the police spokesperson said, “Yes, there was a gunfight between our men and the bandits at Makuku village. Tragically, we lost 10 officers while we killed over 17 bandits.”
Usman described the fallen officers as personnel who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty, assuring that their sacrifice would not be in vain.
He also assured that the injured officers would receive the necessary medical care and support.
