At least nine soldiers and one police officer have been killed in a deadly ambush by armed gunmen in Shanga Local Government Area.

The attack, which occurred on Tuesday night in the Giro Masa community, was confirmed by Nasir Idris.

According to eyewitness accounts, the security operatives were responding to intelligence reports that suspected gunmen were hiding in a construction company yard within the area. Acting on a tip-off from residents, troops were deployed to secure the location but were ambushed en route by the assailants.

Sources said the attackers opened fire on the advancing security team, resulting in multiple casualties. Two military trucks were reportedly set ablaze during the incident, while residents described the scene as chaotic and frightening.

Earlier accounts had indicated that, in addition to security personnel, at least two civilians may have also lost their lives in the attack, although the exact number of casualties remains unclear.

As of the time of filing this report, military authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident.

Governor Idris visited victims of the attack at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi, including the mortuary and the Accident and Emergency unit. Speaking to journalists after the visit on Wednesday, he condemned the attack as “barbaric” and expressed condolences to the families of the deceased.

“This is a sad incident. These are the soldiers who protect the lives of Kebbi residents, yet they found themselves in this situation. The Kebbi State Government will not relent in its efforts to protect the lives of its citizens,” the governor said.

He also assured that the state government would cover the medical expenses of the injured and provide support to the families of fallen security personnel.

The governor offered prayers for the deceased and reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening security across the state. He later visited the scene of the attack for an on-the-spot assessment.