By Queen Madaki
Terrorists have invaded Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, killing three persons, including a vice principal and a six-year-old child.
The attack, which occurred at about 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, threw the community into mourning and renewed concerns over security in the area.
The Bureau Journal gathered that the attackers stormed the community in large numbers with the suspected intention of abducting students and residents.
Police Confirm Attack on School Community
Confirming the incident in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Afusat, the Kogi State Police Command said the armed bandits invaded the area on about 40 motorcycles.
According to the statement, the Divisional Police Officer of Kabba ‘A’ Division immediately mobilised a joint security response after receiving distress calls from residents.
The operation involved personnel from the police division, the Police Mobile Force, tactical units, military personnel and local vigilante groups already stationed in the area.
Security Forces Engage Attackers
The police said security operatives engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to retreat into nearby bushes.
According to the Command, preliminary investigations indicate that there is currently no conclusive evidence of a successful mass abduction of students or residents.
“The combined security operatives engaged the hoodlums in a fierce gun duel, forcing the criminals to flee into the surrounding bush.
“Preliminary findings indicate that there is presently no conclusive evidence of a successful mass abduction of students or other residents.
“However, investigations and ongoing assessments are continuing to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident,” the statement said.
Three Persons Confirmed Dead
The police confirmed that three people lost their lives during the attack.
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 also disclosed that one of the attackers was neutralised during the exchange of gunfire.
A member of the joint security team sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Commissioner Orders Sustained Operations
The Bureau Journal reports that the Commissioner of Police has directed sustained bush-combing operations and confidence-building patrols across the affected communities.
The Command said joint security operatives have continued intensive operations aimed at tracking down fleeing suspects and preventing further attacks in the area.
Residents were urged to remain calm and support security agencies with credible information that could assist ongoing investigations and security operations.
Police authorities assured the public that further updates would be provided as investigations progress.
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