Troops of the Nigerian Army have foiled an attempted mass abduction of students sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and residents of Iluke community in Kogi State, killing two suspected bandits, including a notorious gang leader identified as Ibrahim Aliyu.
According to security sources, the heavily armed attackers stormed the community and targeted a school where students were writing their examinations. Several students and community members were reportedly taken hostage during the attack.
However, troops swiftly responded to a distress call and engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle, disrupting the abduction attempt. During the operation, two suspected bandits were killed, including their alleged commander, Ibrahim Aliyu.
Security sources said the attackers had assembled their captives and were preparing to move them to an unknown destination when soldiers of the 12 Brigade intervened.
One soldier reportedly sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange of fire and is currently receiving medical treatment.
The incident occurred on June 10 in Iluke, a community in the Bunu District of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Military authorities have yet to release an official statement on the operation.
