At least 17 police officers undergoing specialised operational training have been killed after suspected insurgents attacked the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that the police confirmed the incident on Saturday, saying the officers were participating in advanced tactical and counter-terrorism training when the attackers struck the military facility.
Police spokesperson, Anthony Placid, said the attack occurred around 1:15 am on May 8.
“The officers paid the supreme price in service to the nation following a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School, Buni Yadi,” he said.
Placid added that some Nigerian Army personnel also died while repelling the attack, though the number was not disclosed.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, described the slain officers as courageous personnel who showed patriotism and dedication to national security.
He condoled with their families and assured Nigerians that their sacrifice would not be forgotten.
The Yobe State Commissioner of Police, Usman Jibrin, visited the military institution on behalf of the IGP and met with the commandant, Brigadier General A.C. Enuagu, as well as other military officers and surviving police trainees.
Jibrin urged the trainees to remain steadfast and complete their programme in honour of their fallen colleagues.
“The Force, working closely with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, will sustain ongoing efforts to bring the perpetrators of the attack to justice,” Placid said.