One person was killed and another injured on Saturday evening when security operatives engaged suspected bandits in a gun battle after foiling an attempted attack on a community in Ikoyi, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The incident, as gathered, occurred when armed bandits reportedly stormed Ikoyi community with the intention of abducting residents attending a social gathering.
The Kogi State Government, while confirming on Sunday, stated that the swift intervention of security agencies prevented what could have escalated into a major security crisis in the area.
The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said the gathering, organised by members of the Tiv community, was held beyond the State’s approved security curfew for public social activities, which restricts such events after 4:00 p.m.
The attackers, however, met stiff resistance from a combined team of security personnel, including the Nigerian Military, the Nigeria Police Force, operatives of the Kogi State Vigilante Service, and local hunters, who reportedly arrived at the scene within five minutes of receiving distress calls.
A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, forcing the suspected bandits to abandon their operation and flee into nearby forests.
“Security operatives successfully foiled the attack, preventing the abduction of residents and averting what could have become a major security disaster,” the statement said.
Despite the successful operation, one Tiv community member was killed in the crossfire, while another sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
The government disclosed that intelligence reports indicated several of the fleeing attackers suffered gunshot wounds during the encounter. Security agencies have since launched a manhunt to track down and apprehend the suspects.
Authorities have appealed to members of the public to assist ongoing operations by reporting individuals seeking treatment for suspicious gunshot wounds or firearm-related injuries at hospitals, clinics, or other locations.
Fanwo described the operation as another demonstration of the effectiveness of Kogi State’s community-based security architecture and the collaboration among conventional and local security outfits.
He commended the courage and professionalism displayed by the military, police, vigilante personnel, and hunters involved in the operation, noting that their rapid response was instrumental in preventing mass abductions and protecting lives.
The commissioner also reiterated the government’s directive on compliance with security measures, particularly restrictions on unauthorised gatherings in vulnerable locations and at late hours.
“The Kogi State Government remains committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to support security agencies in sustaining peace and security across the state,” he said.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and provide credible intelligence to security agencies to strengthen efforts against criminal elements operating within the state.