A violent assault by armed bandits at the Government Secondary School in Iluke Bunu, located within the Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, has resulted in the deaths of three individuals, including a school vice principal and a six-year-old child. The mid-morning attack has sparked widespread mourning and intensified local security concerns. 

According to a statement from the Kogi State Police Command, issued by spokesperson ASP Saliu Afusat, a large faction of heavily armed bandits arriving on approximately 40 motorcycles breached the school premises. Authorities believe the primary objective of the raid was the mass abduction of students and local residents.

Following emergency distress calls, the Divisional Police Officer of the Kabba ‘A’ Division coordinated an immediate tactical response. This operation integrated personnel from the local division, the Police Mobile Force, and specialized tactical units, alongside military personnel and local vigilante groups already stationed nearby.

A severe gun battle ensued between the joint security forces and the attackers, ultimately forcing the armed group to retreat into the surrounding wilderness. Initial assessments by law enforcement indicate that the prompt security intervention successfully thwarted the attempted mass kidnapping. However, an investigation remains ongoing to fully determine the scope of the incident.

The police command confirmed three fatalities from the encounter: Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, the Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School in Iluke; Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, aged 70; and six-year-old Sunday Ayele. One assailant was killed during the firefight, and a member of the joint security team is currently hospitalized receiving treatment for gunshot wounds.

In response to the raid, the Commissioner of Police has ordered continuous search operations throughout the surrounding bushes, alongside increased patrols to restore public confidence. Joint security operatives maintain an active presence in the region to apprehend the escaping suspects and deter future violence.

Law enforcement officials have advised the community to remain calm and requested that residents come forward with any credible information that could assist the ongoing investigation.