Bandits Storm Kogi Community, Leave Two Dead
Suspected armed bandits launched a violent attack on Aiyetoro Kiri community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday, resulting in the tragic death of two residents. The assailants stormed the settlement and began shooting indiscriminately, creating panic and forcing residents to flee for safety.
Vigilante Intervention Prevents Mass Abduction
According to local accounts, the armed invaders appeared to be heading toward the community's high school, raising fears of a potential mass abduction of students. However, members of the Kiri Vigilante Group quickly mobilized and confronted the attackers, effectively blocking their path to the educational institution.
In the intense exchange of gunfire that followed, one vigilante member lost his life while performing his duty of protecting the community. Another resident was fatally struck by a stray bullet during the confrontation.
The swift action by the local security volunteers prevented the bandits from abducting any residents, including students who would have been vulnerable targets.
Official Confirmation and Security Response
Hon. Zacchaeus Dare Michael, Chairman of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, confirmed the incident through a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Omofa John. The chairman acknowledged that while there were casualties, the security forces successfully repelled the attackers.
"The bandits attacked, and they were resisted and repelled by our team of security men," Michael stated. "Though there were casualties—one hunter and one Hausa man killed by stray bullets—the Joint Task Force has intensified operations to restore confidence in the area."
Security operations have been expanded with joint security teams and local vigilantes combing surrounding bushes in pursuit of the perpetrators. The local government chairman assured residents that normalcy had been restored while warning against circulating unverified information about the incident.
Adding to the official statements, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), Security Adviser to the Kogi State Government, dismissed social media rumors claiming that bandits had invaded Kiri High School and kidnapped students. He described these reports as completely false and urged the public to disregard them.
The incident highlights the continuing security challenges facing rural communities in Kogi State and the crucial role played by local vigilante groups in complementing official security efforts.
