One k!lled as security operatives repel bandit att∆ck on Kogi community

One killed as security operatives repel bandit attack on Kogi community

Security operatives have foiled an attempted terrorist attack in Ikoyi community, Ijumu LGA of Kogi state, preventing what the government described as a planned mass abduction.

A statement issued on Sunday by Kingsley Fanwo, the state’s commissioner for information and communication, said the attack occurred around 7pm on Saturday when armed bandits stormed the community.

He said the attackers allegedly targeted a gathering in the area with the intention of abducting residents and creating panic.

The government said personnel of the Nigerian military, police, Kogi state vigilante service and local hunters responded to a distress call and engaged the attackers in a gun battle.

“Their rapid intervention denied the bandits the opportunity to execute their mission, leading to a fierce gun battle that forced the criminals to abandon their plans and flee,” the statement reads.

The state government said no resident was abducted during the incident.

However, one member of the Tiv community was killed in the crossfire, while another sustained gunshot injuries and is receiving medical treatment.

The government added that intelligence reports indicated several of the attackers suffered gunshot wounds before escaping into nearby forests.

“Security agencies have since launched a manhunt and are currently tracking the fleeing criminals,” the statement added.

The state government urged residents to report individuals with suspicious gunshot wounds or those seeking treatment for firearm-related injuries.

Fanwo said the incident highlighted the effectiveness of the state’s security architecture and the collaboration among security agencies operating in Kogi.

He also credited the Kogi state vigilante service and local hunters for strengthening intelligence gathering and rapid response efforts across the state.

The commissioner reiterated the government’s directive on compliance with security measures, including restrictions on unauthorised gatherings in vulnerable locations and at vulnerable hours.

The government said it would continue to provide support for security agencies and called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement authorities by providing credible intelligence.