JUST IN: M!ssing Timber Operators Found Safe as T£nsion Eases in Oke-Ere, Kogi West

JUST IN: Missing Timber Operators Found Safe as Tension Eases in Oke-Ere, Kogi West

Oke-Ere, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, was gripped by tension on Monday, February 9, 2026, following reports of armed bandits sighted in the Oke-Ere Forest by local timber operators.

Earlier reports indicated that six suspected armed bandits were spotted in the forest while timber operators were working in the area.

Eyewitnesses said more than five operators were present at the time. One of them reportedly raised an alarm after noticing suspicious movements, causing others to flee the forest for safety.

Initial information suggested that some of the timber operators were missing, sparking fear and concern among residents, community leaders, and security stakeholders.

However, in a positive update, all the previously missing timber operators have now been found by the local vigilantes and have safely returned to their homes in Oke-Ere. This development has brought relief to the community, although anxiety remains high.

Local sources confirmed that vigilante groups were quickly mobilised and moved into the forest to track the suspected bandits following the incident.

Security experts believe the individuals sighted in Oke-Ere may be linked to the armed bandits who attacked a forest guard in Koro less than 24 hours earlier.

This suspicion is strengthened by the fact that the forest corridor connects Koro, Ogbe, and Oke-Ere, allowing for easy movement between the communities.

Residents across Oke-Ere, Ogbe, Koro, and surrounding areas have been advised to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to local security operatives as monitoring and security efforts continue.

Source – Egbe Mekun Parrot