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

The unfortunate attack led to the death of three members of the community.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner of Information, Kingsley Fanwo, the government expresses its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, the people of Iluke Community, and the entire Bunu District over this painful loss.

The government commended 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.

According to the government, reports indicate that the bandits disrupted an ongoing WAEC examination and had already begun marching 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.

During the operation, security forces neutralised one of the bandits, while several others escaped with severe gunshot injuries. The state said security agencies are currently on the trail of the fleeing criminals and are intensifying efforts to ensure that all those connected with the attack are apprehended and brought to justice.

The government commended the military, local vigilantes, hunters, and other security personnel whose sacrifice, patriotism, and commitment to duty saved innocent lives and prevented what could have been a devastating mass abduction.

The government said it is closely monitoring the situation in the affected community and is working with relevant security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area.

“Additional security measures will be announced in due course as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property.

“We urge residents to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that can assist ongoing operations against criminal elements.

“Let it be clearly stated that Kogi State will not submit to terror. Criminal elements seeking to undermine the peace and security of our State will continue to meet a determined, coordinated, and uncompromising response from security agencies and the Government.

“Once again, we sympathise with the bereaved families and pray for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased. We also stand in solidarity with the people of Iluke Community as security agencies intensify efforts to restore calm and bring all those responsible for this heinous attack to justice,” the state said.