More than 200 armed bandits on motorcycles attacked a security camp at Makuku in Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State on Monday, August 10, 2026, killing 10 police personnel, a vigilante member and two civilians.
The Nigeria Police Force said the attackers stormed the camp at about 6:00 a.m., targeting personnel of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) Platoon 2 and Police Mobile Force (PMF) 48.
Following a distress call, the Kebbi State Commissioner of Police mobilised reinforcements, supported by personnel of the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Air Force from Kebbi and Katsina states.
Related News: Army Rescues Nine Kidnap Victims, Including Infant, in Kogi
A fierce gun battle reportedly lasted for more than two hours, as security forces confronted the large bandit formation.
The Police said 17 attackers were believed to have been neutralised, while several motorcycles used by the bandits were destroyed. Surviving members of the gang were reportedly seen carrying bodies away on motorcycles as they retreated.
The attack, however, came at a heavy cost to the security forces. Ten police personnel were killed in the line of duty, alongside one vigilante member and two civilians.
Related News: CNN, Dangote Partner to Spotlight African Business
The remains of the fallen officers have been recovered and deposited at a mortuary in Birnin Kebbi, while their next of kin are being notified. The Police said further details about the officers would be withheld temporarily out of respect for their families.
The Inspector-General of Police commended the officers for their courage and sacrifice and ordered an immediate reinforcement of the security architecture across Sakaba LGA and surrounding communities.
The Police have urged residents to remain calm and provide credible intelligence to security agencies as operations continue against bandit groups in the area.
Related News: Tinubu Approves Framework Targeting $50bn Deep Offshore Oil Investment
The deadly assault highlights the continuing threat posed by large, motorcycle-borne armed groups operating across parts of northwestern Nigeria and the significant risks faced by security personnel deployed in vulnerable communities.
