The Nigeria Police Force gathered at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Monday, August 24, 2026, for a solemn memorial service honouring 10 officers of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) who died in the line of duty.
The fallen officers lost their lives on August 10, 2026, during a fierce gun battle with heavily armed bandits along the Rafin Makuku axis in the Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
According to official reports, the team intercepted a band of insurgents moving between Zamfara and Kebbi States, inflicting heavy casualties on the attackers before paying the ultimate price.
Senior police executives, SIS colleagues, and grieving family members gathered to offer prayers and honour the officers’ courage and sacrifice.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the Force’s resolve to dismantle criminal networks operating across the region.
“These gallant personnel paid the supreme price while serving, protecting, and defending lives and property,” IGP Disu stated. “The Nigeria Police Force extends its deepest condolences to their families. We will ensure that the sacrifices of your loved ones are never forgotten.”
“The Force will not be intimidated or relent in the fight against banditry, terrorism, and other forms of violent criminality. The sacrifices of our fallen heroes will not be in vain; we will continue to identify, pursue, and bring to justice all those responsible for attacks on our personnel and innocent citizens.”
Operational assessments following the ambush revealed that the casualties suffered by the bandit groups were substantially greater than initial estimates suggested.
Commander of the Special Intervention Squad, CP Abayomi Shogunle, addressed the surviving tactical personnel, urging them to stay steadfast in their duties.
“Subsequent operational assessments indicate that the losses inflicted on the attackers were significantly higher than our initial assessment,” CP Shogunle noted. “The morale of the SIS must not be allowed to waver. Personnel must continue this fight with the same courage and determination demonstrated by our fallen colleagues.”
Representing the grieving relatives, Grace Bala Buba, daughter of one of the fallen officers, expressed gratitude for the support provided by the law enforcement community during their period of loss.
“We appreciate the Nigeria Police Force for honouring our loved ones today and for the continued support extended to our families during this difficult time,” Buba said.
The service concluded with a call from police leadership to draw renewed determination from the tragedy, as tactical sustained operations continue across Kebbi, Zamfara, and neighbouring states.
