By Andrew Haruna
A team of local hunters in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, Kogi State, has successfully rescued five kidnapped victims and foiled a kidnapping attempt in Tata Bunu community.
During the operation, the hunters killed one of the suspected bandits, while others fled with gunshot wounds.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Kabba/Bunu Local Government Chairman, Omofa John, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, confirming that the incident occurred in the early hours of the day.
How the Operation Unfolded
According to the statement, upon receiving intelligence about the criminal activity, local hunters and vigilante members swiftly mobilized to confront the attackers.
“On noticing the presence of the team, the bandits opened fire, but the operatives responded gallantly, successfully thwarting the kidnapping attempt and rescuing all the victims,” the statement read.
One of the local hunters sustained an injury during the operation and is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
Security Efforts and Chairman’s Response
The success of the operation was attributed to the security materials and logistics recently provided by the Kabba/Bunu Local Government Chairman, which boosted the morale of the local security team.
The chairman also urged communities, especially in Bunu district, to take an active role in self-defense, emphasizing that security cannot be treated as business as usual.
He further assured local hunters of additional support, pledging to provide more logistics and essential materials to enhance their operations.
This development underscores the growing reliance on community security outfits in tackling banditry and kidnapping across Kogi State.