The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the death of 10 police officers during a gun battle with a heavily armed group of suspected bandits in Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

It was reported that the deadly encounter occurred at about 9:25am on Monday, August 10, 2026, when police operatives intercepted the suspected bandits along the Rafin Makuku axis as they moved between Zamfara and Kebbi states.

According to the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, 17 suspected bandits were neutralised during the operation, while four motorcycles belonging to the attackers were destroyed.

However, 10 police personnel were killed in the encounter, while two others sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.

Two civilians also lost their lives during the clash.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Iniedu said the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, expressed profound grief over the loss of the officers and extended his condolences to their families and loved ones.

The IGP described the deaths as a painful loss to the Nigeria Police Force and the nation, noting that the officers paid the ultimate price while defending the people they swore to protect.

Disu assured the families of the deceased that the sacrifice of the officers would not be forgotten, adding that their service and bravery would continue to be honoured by the Force.

The remains of the fallen officers have since been conveyed to Birnin Kebbi, while the area has been brought under control by security operatives.

The police said additional personnel had been deployed to the area to reinforce security, sustain ongoing operations and pursue fleeing members of the criminal group.

The Force also assured the bereaved families that it would provide necessary support to them and the injured officers.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains deeply mindful of the pain and loss suffered by the families of the fallen officers,” the statement said.

It added that the Force would continue to stand with the families while honouring the memory and sacrifice of the officers through sustained efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.