The Nigeria Police Force has pledged to remain unwavering in its campaign against banditry and terrorism across the country, with the Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, declaring that the sacrifice of slain officers will drive a renewed offensive.
Disu made the pledge on Monday in Abuja during a memorial parade held in honor of 10 officers of the Police Special Intervention Squad who were killed in a gun battle with suspected bandits in Kebbi State on August 10.
According to the IGP, the officers were on an intelligence led operation when they intercepted a large group of heavily armed bandits moving toward Zamfara State. He described their action as a deliberate effort to prevent further attacks on vulnerable communities.
The gallant officers engaged the criminals in a fierce encounter to protect lives and property. They stood their ground in the face of overwhelming firepower because that is what the Nigeria Police Force stands for. Disu told a gathering of senior officers, families of the deceased, and dignitaries.
The Police Chief disclosed that the operation dealt a heavy blow to the bandits, with hundreds of terrorists neutralized during the confrontation. He added that security operatives later recovered 25 bodies from the surrounding forest during a mop-up exercise.
Disu paid tribute to the fallen men, describing them as patriots who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. He assured their families that their sacrifice would not be forgotten and that the Force would provide necessary support to those left behind.
The Nigeria Police Force will not be cowed by the antics of criminal elements. We will remain firm, resolute, and more strategic in our response to banditry and all forms of insecurity threatening our nation, he vowed.
The IGP further stressed that tackling insecurity requires collaboration. He said the Police would deepen joint operations with the military, Department of State Services, local vigilantes, and community leaders to dismantle criminal networks operating in the North West and other flashpoints.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to support security agencies with credible information, adding that the memory of the 10 officers lost in Kebbi would serve as a constant reminder of the Force’s duty to protect citizens, no matter the cost.
