Armed bandits have launched an attack on Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, leaving three people dead, including a vice principal and a six-year-old child.
The assault, which occurred around 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, plunged the community into grief and renewed fears over worsening insecurity in the area.
According to the Kogi State Police Command, the attackers arrived in large numbers on about 40 motorcycles, with an apparent plan to abduct students and residents.
Police spokesperson, ASP Saliu Afusat, said the Divisional Police Officer of Kabba ‘A’ Division quickly mobilised a joint response team after receiving a distress alert.
The operation involved officers of the police division, the Police Mobile Force, tactical units, the military, and local vigilantes already operating in the area.
Security forces engaged the assailants in a gun battle, forcing them to retreat into nearby bushes. The police added that there is currently no confirmed evidence of a mass abduction of students or other residents.
However, the Command confirmed that three persons lost their lives in the attack: Mr Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr Sunday Jacob Alhassan, 70; and six-year-old Sunday Ayele.
One of the attackers was reportedly killed during the exchange of fire, while a member of the joint security team sustained injuries and is receiving treatment.
The Commissioner of Police has ordered intensified bush-combing operations and increased patrols in the area as efforts continue to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks.
Residents have been urged to remain calm and provide useful information to security agencies as investigations continue.