Four killed as bandits, police gunfire tear through Kogi Community

By Richard Elesho

A fresh wave of violence struck Irunda, a farming community in Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State, on Wednesday, leaving four people dead in two separate but connected incidents involving bandits and police operatives.

The tragedy began in the early hours when armed bandits stormed the village, opening fire and killing two vigilantes who were part of local security efforts.

The attack heightened fear and anger among residents, prompting youths to take to the streets in protest.

Tension escalated when security operatives arrived at the scene.

According to eyewitness accounts, frustration grew as officers hesitated to pursue the fleeing attackers. The hesitation reportedly triggered a confrontation between the youths and the police.

The situation quickly spiralled out of control. In the ensuing chaos, police fired shots, killing two additional residents and injuring several others. Tear gas was also deployed, leaving more people hospitalised.

A community leader, the Bobagunwa of Irunda Isanlu, Chief (Engr.) David Oni Sunday, explained the sequence of events to journalists.

He said the community was already distressed from the bandits’ attack when the police arrival further aggravated tensions.

He said that two vigilantes were killed by the bandits, while two youths were “mistakenly shot” by the police amid the confrontation, adding that more residents were injured by tear gas.

Confirming the incident, Kogi State’s Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd.), described the development as unfortunate but emphasised that the government was intensifying its campaign against criminal elements.

He said security forces had recently neutralised several bandits hiding around mining sites in the area and would continue operations until all criminal groups are dismantled.

Omodara noted that a helicopter had been deployed days earlier as part of coordinated efforts to flush out attackers.

He maintained that the Kogi State government would not tolerate criminality and remains committed to restoring peace in vulnerable communities.

The latest attack adds to growing concern over persistent insecurity in Yagba East, where bandit incursions, kidnappings and clashes have become increasingly frequent, leaving residents anxious and demanding stronger protection.