Three Police Officers Killed in Foiled Kebbi Bandit Attack

Tragedy struck on Friday, July 11, 2025, as a valiant attempt by security forces to repel an ambush by suspected Lakurawa bandits ended in the loss of three gallant police officers in Bunza Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

According to a statement released by the spokesperson of the Kebbi State Police Command, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, the incident occurred around 7 p.m. along the Zogirma-Tilli road. Intelligence reports had alerted the Command to suspicious movement by armed bandits lurking in the nearby forest and allegedly plotting to abduct travellers.

Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Zogirma led a tactical response team, reinforced by operatives from the No. 36 Police Mobile Force Squadron based in Birnin Kebbi.

The security forces confronted the suspected Lakurawa bandits in what was described as a “fierce and courageous gun battle.”

“Several of the bandits were neutralised in the exchange of fire, while others escaped with gunshot injuries into the forest,” the statement confirmed.

However, in the course of the operation, one police inspector and two officers paid the ultimate price. Their names were withheld pending official notification of next of kin.

Mourning the fallen officers, the Commissioner of Police, CP Bello M. Sani, hailed their bravery and selfless sacrifice. He reaffirmed the Command’s determination to continue safeguarding the lives and property of the people of Kebbi State.

These officers died heroes, and their sacrifice will not be forgotten,” CP Sani stated. “We urge the public to remain alert and continue cooperating with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activity.”

Security patrols have since been intensified in the area as part of ongoing operations to flush out the remaining bandits and prevent further threats to road users.