Kogi School Raid: Authorities Step Up Pursuit of Escaped Militants

The Kogi State Police Command has successfully repelled an attack by armed bandits who invaded Iluke community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, according to a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer ASP Adusat Salihu.

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The attackers had targeted Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, where students were taking the WAEC English Language examination, with the intention of abducting students and residents, the command said.

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A distress call was received around 10:00 a.m. that a large number of armed men on about 40 motorcycles had stormed the school and surrounding community, prompting a swift response from the police.

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The Divisional Police Officer of Kabba “A” Division immediately mobilised officers, Police Mobile Force personnel, and tactical units to engage the attackers, with military personnel and local vigilante groups also joining the operation.

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A joint security team clashed with the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to flee into nearby bushes, and preliminary findings indicate no conclusive evidence of a successful mass abduction, although investigations are ongoing.

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Three persons were killed during the attack, identified as Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, aged 70; and a six-year-old boy, Sunday Ayele.

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Efforts have been intensified to track down the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice, with one bandit reportedly neutralised during the exchange of fire, and a security team member sustaining gunshot injuries and currently receiving treatment.

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The Commissioner of Police in Kogi State has ordered sustained bush-combing operations and increased patrols in the affected area, urging residents to remain calm and vigilant.

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Residents are also being encouraged to continue providing credible information to security agencies, with further updates to be communicated as operations progress, the command said.