Security operatives have successfully repelled an attempted bandit attack on Ikoyi Community in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, preventing what authorities described as a planned mass abduction of residents.
The attack reportedly occurred around 7 p.m. on Saturday when armed bandits stormed the community and allegedly targeted a gathering with the intention of kidnapping residents and causing widespread panic.
According to the Kogi State Government, a joint team comprising personnel of the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Kogi State Vigilante Service, and local hunters swiftly responded after receiving a distress call from the community.
The security operatives engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to abandon their mission and flee into nearby forests before they could carry out any abduction.
“Their rapid intervention denied the bandits the opportunity to execute their mission,” the government stated.
While no resident was kidnapped during the attack, the government confirmed that one member of the Tiv community lost his life during the crossfire, while another victim sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Authorities also revealed that intelligence gathered after the operation suggests that several of the fleeing attackers suffered gunshot wounds during the exchange of fire.
Following the incident, security agencies have launched an intensive manhunt for the criminals, with efforts ongoing to track and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
The government has urged residents to immediately report anyone seeking treatment for gunshot wounds or displaying suspicious injuries that may be linked to the failed attack.
Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, praised the collaboration among security agencies, local vigilantes, and hunters, describing the operation as another demonstration of the effectiveness of the state’s security architecture.
He noted that the partnership between conventional security agencies and community-based security groups has continued to strengthen intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities across the state.
Fanwo also reiterated the government’s directive on compliance with existing security measures, including restrictions on unauthorised gatherings in vulnerable locations and during high-risk periods.
The state government assured residents of its continued support for security agencies and urged citizens to remain vigilant by providing credible intelligence that could help prevent future attacks.
“Security agencies are currently tracking the fleeing criminals, and every effort is being made to ensure they are brought to justice,” the commissioner said.
Source: Kogi State Government.
