Two police officers have been killed in a gunfight with bandits who attacked Alhaji Lawal Block Farm and nearby Fulani settlements in Natsini village, along the Argungu-Kangiwa road in Kebbi State.
The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Nafiu Abubakar, on Saturday.
The bandits, identified as members of the Lakurawa group, rustled an unspecified number of cows during the attack.
Upon receiving a distress call, officers from the Police Safer Highway patrol team responded immediately. A fierce gun battle ensued, forcing the bandits to retreat into the forest with gunshot wounds. Some of the stolen cattle were recovered by the police during the operation.
Tragically, two officers lost their lives in the exchange.
The Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, Bello Sani, condemned the incident, describing the loss of the officers as a great tragedy.
Following the attack, CP Sani visited the site of the incident for an on-the-spot assessment. He later met with the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Mera, to offer condolences and assure the Emirate of ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat crime in the region.
The attack highlights ongoing security challenges in Kebbi State. Authorities have called for community cooperation to aid in tracking the fleeing bandits and ensuring peace in affected areas.
The Kebbi State Police Command reiterated its commitment to securing lives and property while urging residents to report any suspicious activities promptly.
