Three police officers have died in a fierce gunfight with Lakurawa terrorists in Kebbi State, the state police command has confirmed.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, said the officers were part of a team that engaged the terrorists as they attempted to attack commuters along the Zogirma-Tilli road.
According to the statement, the Zogirma Divisional Police Officer quickly mobilised a response team, supported by reinforcements from the No. 36 Police Mobile Force Squadron in Birnin Kebbi. The terrorists, however, fled into the nearby forest after sustaining heavy casualties.
While the police lost three men in the exchange, several terrorists were reportedly neutralised, with others escaping with gunshot wounds.
The Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, CP Bello M. Sani, praised the bravery and sacrifice of the fallen officers, describing their efforts as heroic. He offered prayers for their souls and condolences to their families.
He also urged residents of Kebbi to stay alert and report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest police station, assuring that the force remains committed to securing lives and property in the state.
The Zogirma-Tilli axis has seen occasional attacks by armed groups, making security presence in the area a top priority for law enforcement.