Security operatives in Kogi State have successfully repelled an attempted attack by heavily armed bandits on Iluke Community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, thwarting what authorities believe was a planned mass abduction of students and residents.
The Kogi State Police Command disclosed in a statement on Wednesday that the attackers, numbering several dozens and riding approximately 40 motorcycles, stormed Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, at about 10:00 a.m.
According to the Command, a distress call was promptly received, triggering a coordinated security response led by the Divisional Police Officer of Kabba ‘A’ Division. Personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Police Mobile Force, tactical units, military operatives, and local vigilante groups were immediately mobilised to confront the assailants.
A fierce gun battle ensued between the joint security team and the bandits, forcing the criminals to retreat into the surrounding forest.
The police said preliminary investigations have not established any successful mass abduction of students or residents, although assessments and investigations remain ongoing to determine the full extent of the incident.
Despite the successful repulsion of the attack, three persons were killed during the invasion. The victims were identified as Mr Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr Sunday Jacob Alhassan, aged 70; and six-year-old Sunday Ayele.
The Command expressed condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public that those responsible would be brought to justice.
Police authorities also confirmed that one of the bandits was neutralised during the exchange of gunfire, while a security operative attached to the joint task force sustained gunshot wounds and is currently receiving medical attention.
In response to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command, ordered sustained bush-combing operations and confidence-building patrols across the affected communities.
Joint security teams comprising police officers, military personnel and local vigilantes have since launched an intensive manhunt for the fleeing suspects, with authorities determined to prevent any further threat to lives and property.
The Police Command urged residents to remain calm but vigilant and to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information capable of aiding ongoing operations.
Further updates, the Command said, will be communicated as investigations and security operations progress.
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