Two police officers have been confirmed dead, three declared missing and two others injured after suspected Fulani herders ambushed a police tactical team in Sabon Sara village of Darazo Local Government Area in Bauchi State.
The attack took place on Nov. 22, in the afternoon as the operatives were carrying out an intelligence-led patrol in an area that has seen repeated clashes between farmers and herders.
The team included personnel from Mobile Police Squadron 10, the Anti Kidnapping Unit and the State Intelligence Department.
According to Zagazola Makama, the officers were suddenly confronted by armed herders who opened fire, cutting down members of the squad. DSP Ahmad Muhammad of the State Intelligence Department and Inspector Amarhel Yunusa of Mopol 10 died at the scene.
ASP Mustapha Muhammad and Inspector Idris Ahmed, both from Mopol 10, along with Corporal Isah Muazu of the Anti Kidnapping Unit, were reported missing after the ambush. Efforts to locate them were still ongoing late Thursday.
Inspector Isah Musa and Inspector Yusuf Gambo of the intelligence department were injured and taken to the General Hospital in Darazo for treatment.
Police sources said the Commissioner of Police has ordered more tactical units into the area to strengthen the Darazo Division and to step up the hunt for the missing officers and those responsible for the attack.