Kwara State police commissioner Ojo Adekimi on Thursday announced that operational, intelligence and tactical assets are being mobilised to apprehend those responsible for the ambush on a police mobile‑force camp at Tenebo, Kai‑Bara, on Saturday.
The attack resulted in the deaths of three police officers and left several others seriously injured. According to the commissioner, the assault was “heinous and cowardly” and the loss of the three officers – who “paid the ultimate price in the line of duty” – will be forever remembered.
In a statement released by the Kwara State Police Command, Commissioner Adekimi condemned the incident in its entirety and pledged that every resource at the command’s disposal would be deployed to track the perpetrators and bring them to justice. “We are tracking the masterminds of this attack and will ensure they are brought to book,” the commissioner said.
The command extended its condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the fallen officers. It also urged the public to cooperate with ongoing investigations and to report any information that could aid in identifying the attackers. “We also pray for the swift recovery of the injured personnel currently receiving treatment,” the statement added. “No words can fully capture the pain of this loss, but the command stands firmly with the bereaved families and assures them of our unwavering support.”
The Tenebo incident follows a series of security challenges in north‑western Kwara State, where banditry and communal clashes have heightened concerns over public safety. Police mobile‑force units, commonly deployed to protect vulnerable communities and respond to insurgent threats, have become frequent targets in the region. Security officials have warned that the tactical environment remains volatile, and that coordinated intelligence efforts are essential to prevent further attacks.
In response to the attack, the Kwara State Police Command has activated its Rapid Response Team and is coordinating with the State Security Service and the Federal Police to pool intelligence on the suspects. Preliminary reports suggest the assailants were armed with automatic weapons and used a vehicle‑borne improvised explosive device to breach the camp’s perimeter before opening fire. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts to reconstruct the sequence of events.
The commissioner emphasised that the police force will not be deterred by the attack. “Our resolve to protect the lives and property of Nigerians remains unshaken,” he said. “We will continue to work tirelessly to restore confidence in law‑enforcement agencies and ensure that justice is served.”
The families of the deceased officers have been invited to a briefing at the state police headquarters, where they will receive official documentation and support services. Funeral arrangements for the three officers are expected to be announced later this week.
The ongoing investigation and the deployment of additional resources underscore the state’s commitment to countering violent extremism and safeguarding its citizens. As the police intensify their search for the attackers, authorities have urged residents of Kai‑Bara and surrounding areas to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activities promptly.
