By Abdullahi Tukur, Birnin Kebbi
No fewer than nine soldiers and one police officer have been killed in a deadly ambush by bandits in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The attack, which occurred at Giron Masa village, also claimed the life of a civilian, while two other security personnel sustained gunshot injuries.
Governor Nasir Idris who vsited the Federal Medical Centre Birnin Kebbi, where the remains of the slain personnel were deposited, described the incident as tragic and painful.
The security operatives were reportedly responding to a distress call following intelligence about a planned bandit attack on the community when they were ambushed by the assailants.
At the hospital, the Governor was received by the Head of Clinical Services, Dr. Ashiru Ladan, who conducted him round the facility, including the mortuary where the bodies of the victims were kept.
The governor also visited the injured personnel receiving treatment and later proceeded to the scene of the incident.
“This is a great loss, not only to the security agencies but to the entire people of Kebbi State. These were gallant men who died protecting lives and property,” he said.
He directed the hospital management to provide the best medical care for the injured and assured that the state government would bear the full cost of their treatment.
The Governor also pledged support for the families of the deceased, reiterating his administration’s commitment to standing by security personnel.
During a visit to Giron Masa Village, the scene of the attack, Idris inspected a military vehicle destroyed during the ambush, describing the incident as a sad development.
He said the troops were lured into the ambush by bandits, highlighting the risks faced daily by security operatives.
The Governor further disclosed plans to travel to Abuja to meet with the Chief of Army Staff to formally convey condolences on behalf of the state.
Meanwhile, the Emir of Yauri, Zayyanu Abdullahi, has called for improved intelligence gathering and the deployment of modern technology, including drones, to strengthen security operations and reduce casualties.
