The Kogi State Government has expressed grief over the killing of three persons during an attack by suspected bandits on Iluke Community in the Bunu District of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, while commending security operatives for rescuing students from an attempted abduction during the incident.
According to the state government, the attackers, who reportedly disguised themselves in military uniforms, invaded the community in an apparent attempt to deceive residents and carry out criminal activities.
A statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, said the attack resulted in the death of three members of the community, prompting widespread mourning among residents and government officials.
The state government extended its condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Iluke Community, describing the incident as tragic and unfortunate.
Fanwo disclosed that the attackers allegedly disrupted an ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC) session and began moving students into the bush before security personnel intervened.
According to the commissioner, troops and local security forces engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, preventing what could have become a large-scale abduction.
“The bandits disrupted the ongoing WAEC examination and had already begun marching the students into the bush when security operatives engaged them in a fierce gun battle,” the statement said.
He noted that the swift intervention, professionalism, and superior firepower of the security personnel led to the successful rescue of all the students, who were returned safely without injuries.
The Kogi State Government praised the military, local vigilantes, hunters, and other security personnel involved in the operation, describing their actions as courageous and instrumental in preventing further casualties.
Fanwo also urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could assist ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities in the area.
Meanwhile, the Kogi State Police Command confirmed that three people lost their lives during the attack, including the vice principal of the affected school.
The police further disclosed that one of the suspected bandits was neutralized during the exchange of gunfire with security operatives.
According to the command, a member of the joint security team sustained gunshot injuries during the operation and is currently receiving medical treatment alongside the injured suspect.
The attack highlights the continuing security challenges facing several communities across Nigeria, particularly in rural areas where criminal groups have increasingly targeted schools, highways, and farming communities for kidnappings and other violent crimes.
Security agencies have intensified operations in parts of Kogi State and neighboring regions in recent years as authorities seek to curb the activities of bandits and other armed groups operating within the area.
The state government reiterated its commitment to supporting security agencies and strengthening measures aimed at protecting lives and property across Kogi State.
As investigations continue and security operations are sustained in the affected area, residents have been encouraged to remain vigilant while authorities work to prevent further attacks and bring those responsible to justice.
