KOGI STATE MOURNS VICTIMS OF ILUKE BANDITS ATTACK AS TROOPS FOIL ABDUCTION OF STUDENTS. (PHOTO).

KOGI STATE MOURNS VICTIMS OF ILUKE BANDITS ATTACK AS TROOPS FOIL ABDUCTION OF STUDENTS

Kogi State Government says it received with deep sadness the report of a terrorists attack on Iluke Community in Bunu District of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area by criminal elements, who disguised in military uniforms in an attempt to deceive residents and perpetrate evil.

A statement by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications Kingsley Femi Fanwo says, the unfortunate attack led to the death of three members of the community.

The statement extends Government's heartfelt condolences to the families of victims and the people of Iluke Community over the loss.

The State Government commends the swift response, exceptional bravery, and gallantry of military personnel and local security forces, whose intervention prevented the attackers from carrying out a mass abduction of students and inflicting further casualties on the community.

The Commissioner explains that 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. 

Owing to the superior firepower, professionalism, and courage of the security agents, all the students were successfully rescued unharmed and returned to safety.

While appreciating the military, local vigilantes, hunters, and other security personnel whose sacrifice, patriotism, and commitment to duty saved innocent lives, the Commissioner urges residents to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that can assist ongoing operations against criminal elements.

Meanwhile, the Kogi State Police Command has confirmed three persons killed during the attack including the Vice Principal of the school.

The Command further explains that during the exchange of gunfire, one of the bandits was neutralized, while a security operatives attached to the joint team sustained gunshot injuries and are both receiving medical treatment.