The Bauchi State Police Command has confirmed the tragic loss of five police officers who were ambushed by armed Fulani herdsmen during a tactical operation in Sabon Sara village, Darazo Local Government Area. The ambush took place while the officers were on an intelligence-led patrol aimed at preventing and managing farmer–herder conflicts in the region.
In a detailed statement released on Sunday, November 23, 2025, the command’s spokesperson, CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, explained that the attackers were met with resistance, and several of them were neutralised during the gunfire exchange. Wakil highlighted the bravery and professionalism of the police personnel involved, emphasizing that their efforts were crucial in preventing further escalation of the situation.
The ambush occurred on November 22, when multiple tactical units—including the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), 10 PMF Bauchi, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU), and the State Intelligence Department (SID)—acted on credible intelligence to conduct a visibility patrol in the area. The operation was intended to address ongoing insecurity and farmer–herder clashes, which have been a source of tension and violence in Sabon Sara village and surrounding communities.
According to CSP Wakil, a Good Samaritan had alerted the Command earlier, reporting that the police units were under attack by unidentified Fulani youths. The timely communication enabled the command to mobilize reinforcements, but despite their efforts, five officers paid the ultimate price, while two others sustained injuries and were rushed to the hospital for treatment.
The statement read: “Five officers paid the supreme price, two were injured, while a certain number of bandits were neutralised in Sabon Sara village, Darazo LGA, Bauchi State. As we work towards the actualization of a crime-free state, where the unsavory activities of criminal elements desperate to make a living at the expense of law-abiding citizens of the state have put us on the chase, we are pleased that our personnel did not fall short of expectations, successfully neutralizing a number of bandits during the gun duel.”
CSP Wakil also provided the names of the deceased officers: 1. DSP Ahmad Muhammad (SID), 2. ASP Mustapha Muhammad (10 PMF), 3. Inspector Amarhel Yunusa (10 PMF), 4. Inspector Idris Ahmed (10 PMF), and 5. Corporal Isah Muazu (AKU). The injured officers were identified as Inspector Isah Musa (SID) and Inspector Yusuf Gambo (SID). The officers were evacuated to the general hospital in Darazo, and the remains of the deceased were deposited at the morgue for proper arrangements.
The Bauchi State Police Command confirmed that intense efforts are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators of this heinous attack. Reinforcements led by the Divisional Police Officer, SP Auwalu Ilu, were deployed to the scene to secure the area, provide assistance to the injured, and gather evidence for further investigations. CSP Wakil stressed that the Command remains committed to ensuring that all individuals responsible are brought to justice promptly and without delay.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, conducted an on-the-spot assessment at the scene, expressing condolences to the families of the deceased officers and commending the professionalism and courage of all personnel involved. He reassured the public that the Command will continue to uphold its mandate to protect lives and property, and will not relent in the face of criminal activities in the state. CP Aliyu emphasized that the task of policing in Bauchi is challenging, but the Command remains determined, tireless, and resolute in its mission to maintain law and order across the state.
The tragic ambush has sparked widespread concern among residents and stakeholders, highlighting the persistent threats posed by armed herdsmen and the urgent need for enhanced security measures in vulnerable communities. Authorities have appealed to the public to provide credible information that could aid in tracking down the attackers and preventing similar incidents in the future. Meanwhile, security agencies in Bauchi State have pledged to intensify operations against criminal elements to safeguard communities and maintain peace in the region.