The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed that 17 police officers were killed during a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, located in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The officers were reportedly participating in specialised operational training when the attackers stormed the facility in the early hours of May 8.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, the terrorists launched a coordinated assault on the institution from different directions at about 1:15 a.m.
“The officers, who were undergoing specialized operational training at the institution, lost their lives when terrorists launched a coordinated attack on the facility from multiple directions at about 0115hrs,” the statement said.
The police also disclosed that some personnel of the Nigerian Army lost their lives while resisting the attackers during the gun battle.
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu described the deceased officers as brave personnel who demonstrated commitment to national security through advanced tactical and counter-terrorism training.
According to the statement, the IGP said the officers paid the ultimate price in service to the country and assured that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
He also extended condolences to the families of the slain officers and promised continued support for those affected by the attack.
“As part of a solidarity visit, the Commissioner of Police in Yobe State, CP Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the training facility on behalf of the Inspector-General, where he commiserated with military authorities and surviving trainees,” the statement added.
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The police chief further praised the resilience of surviving officers and encouraged them to complete their training in honour of their fallen colleagues.
The Force assured Nigerians that security agencies, including the Armed Forces, are working together to track down those responsible for the attack and bring them to justice.
The statement reiterated the commitment of the police to honouring the slain officers, describing them as heroes who died in active service to the nation.