Ten police officers and two civilians were killed during a gun battle between security forces and suspected bandits in Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The incident occurred around 9:25am on Monday along the Rafin Makuku axis, where security personnel intercepted the armed group reportedly moving between Zamfara and Kebbi states.

The Kebbi State Police Command said at least 17 suspected bandits were neutralised during the encounter, while four motorcycles belonging to the attackers were also destroyed.

The command’s spokesperson, Bashir Usman, said the casualty figure among the bandits was still being verified.

He said the security forces suffered significant losses, with 10 police personnel killed and two others injured and receiving medical attention.

Usman described the deceased officers as brave personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, adding that their contributions would not be forgotten.

Two civilians were also killed during the confrontation, according to the police.

The command said its immediate priorities were to support the families of the deceased officers, care for the injured and continue operations to track fleeing members of the bandit group.

The Nigeria Police Force also confirmed the deaths of the 10 officers. Its Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, said Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu described the incident as a painful loss to the Force and the country.

The remains of the deceased officers were taken to Birnin Kebbi, while additional security personnel were deployed to the area to strengthen ongoing operations and pursue the fleeing suspects.

The police said further details would be released as the situation continued to be assessed.