Ten police officers have been killed after more than 200 armed bandits attacked a security camp in Makuku, Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State, on Monday morning.

The attack occurred at about 6am, according to the Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu. The assailants, reportedly riding motorcycles, engaged security personnel in a fierce gun battle that lasted for more than two hours.

The police said one vigilante member and two civilians were also killed, while at least 17 of the attackers were neutralised.

Following a distress call, the Kebbi State Commissioner of Police mobilised reinforcements, with personnel from the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Air Force from Kebbi and Katsina States joining the operation.

The remains of the fallen police officers have been deposited at a mortuary in Birnin Kebbi, while their next of kin are being notified.

Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, commended the officers for their bravery and sacrifice and ordered the immediate reinforcement of security operations across Sakaba LGA and neighbouring communities.

The police also appealed to residents to remain calm and provide security agencies with credible information to help prevent further attacks.