By Abubakar Ojima-ojo
Bandits 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 6-year-old child.
The attack, which occurred at about 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, threw the community into mourning and heightened concerns over security in the area.
Confirming the incident in a statement issued by its spokesperson, ASP Saliu Afusat, the Kogi State Police Command said a large number of armed bandits, operating on about 40 motorcycles, invaded the school with the suspected intention of abducting students and other residents.
The statement said the Divisional Police Officer of Kabba ‘A’ Division immediately mobilised a joint security response after receiving distress calls, deploying personnel from the police division, the Police Mobile Force, and tactical teams.
It added that military personnel and local vigilante groups already stationed in the area also joined the operation.
“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.
The Command, however, confirmed that three persons were killed during the attack.
“They include Mr Ganiyu Anifowose, the Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr Sunday Jacob Alhassan, aged 70 years; and Sunday Ayele, aged six years.”
The police said one of the attackers was neutralised during the exchange of gunfire, while a member of the joint security team sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving treatment.
The Commissioner of Police has ordered sustained bush-combing operations and confidence-building patrols in the affected area. According to the Command, joint security operatives are still conducting intensive operations to apprehend fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks.
Members of the public were urged to remain calm and assist security agencies with credible information.
“Further developments will be communicated as investigations and operations progress,” the statement added.
