An ambush by armed gunmen has claimed the lives of nine soldiers and one police officer in Kebbi State.

The attack occurred on Tuesday night in the Giro Masa community, located within the Shanga Local Government Area.

Several civilians were also reported dead following the violent encounter between security forces and the assailants.

The security personnel were reportedly acting on a tip-off from local residents. They were dispatched to a construction company yard where the gunmen had been tracked.

However, the attackers launched a surprise assault on the troops while they were en route to the site.

The gunmen also set two military gun trucks on fire during the chaotic engagement.

Channels Television reported that the attackers had been operating within the community and nearby forests for some time.

Residents described a scene of total terror as people ran in all directions to escape the heavy gunfire.

The gunmen allegedly fled into hard-to-reach forested areas immediately after the ambush.

Governor Nasir Idris Confirms Tragic Loss During Hospital Visit

Governor Nasir Idris confirmed the casualty figures on Wednesday morning during a visit to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi.

He visited the mortuary and the accident and emergency unit where the victims were taken.

The Governor described the incident as a “barbaric” act against men who were working to protect the state.

“This is a sad incident. These are the soldiers who protect the lives of Kebbi residents, yet they found themselves in this situation,” Governor Idris said.

He assured the public that the Kebbi State Government would not relent in its efforts to protect its citizens. He also promised to cover all medical bills for the injured survivors.

“The state government will provide full support to the families of the deceased security personnel,” the Governor added.

He then proceeded to the scene of the attack in Shanga for an on-the-spot assessment of the security situation.

He prayed for the souls of the fallen heroes and vowed to strengthen regional security.

Lakurawa Terrorists Suspected In Coordinated Strike Against Troops

While military authorities have yet to release an official statement, security analysts believe the “Lakurawa” terrorist group is behind the attack.

This group has recently been linked to several violent incidents in the North-West. The use of advanced ambush tactics and the destruction of military hardware point to a coordinated insurgent operation.

Vanguard News noted that Shanga Local Government Area has faced sporadic attacks by armed groups in recent years.

These groups often exploit the difficult terrain and limited intelligence to target security forces.

The incident shows a dangerous escalation in the tactics used by terrorists in the North-West.