The Nigeria Police Force has held a memorial service at Force Headquarters, Abuja, in honour of 10 officers of the Special Intervention Squad, SIS, killed during an encounter with suspected bandits in Kebbi State.
The service, held on August 24, 2026, featured prayers as senior officers, colleagues and families of the deceased gathered to pay tribute to the officers who died on August 10, 2026, along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area.
The officers were part of a team that intercepted a heavily armed group of bandits moving between Zamfara and Kebbi States. While the police suffered casualties, officials said the attackers also incurred significant losses.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, described the fallen officers as gallant personnel who paid the supreme price in the line of duty. He extended condolences to their families and assured them of the Force’s continued support.
“The sacrifices of our heroes will not be in vain. We will not be intimidated or relent in the fight against banditry, terrorism and other violent crimes,” Disu said. He added that the Force would pursue those responsible for attacks on police personnel and citizens.
Commander of the SIS, CP Abayomi Shogunle, said subsequent assessments showed the losses inflicted on the attackers were higher than earlier reported. He urged personnel to sustain the courage and determination shown by their colleagues.
Speaking on behalf of the bereaved families, Grace Bala Buba, daughter of one of the deceased officers, thanked the Nigeria Police Force for honouring the fallen officers and for supporting the families.
The IGP urged officers to remember their fallen colleagues with pride and to draw renewed resolve from their sacrifice as the Force strengthens collaboration with other security agencies to tackle insecurity.
