Omanghana
Four residents abducted by armed bandits in the Oke-Ere community of Yagba West Local Government Area, Kogi State, have regained their freedom following a joint security operation.
The rescue was carried out by personnel of the Nigerian Army and local vigilantes on Sunday, August 2, 2026.
The incident began when armed attackers invaded Oke-Ere during the early hours of Sunday, firing several gunshots and creating panic among residents.
The assailants subsequently abducted four people from the community and fled towards the surrounding forest.
Following the attack, local vigilante volunteers and Nigerian Army personnel quickly mobilized and pursued the kidnappers into the bush.
The security team reportedly caught up with the armed group, resulting in a fierce exchange of gunfire.
Three suspected bandits were killed during the confrontation, while several others escaped deeper into the forest with suspected gunshot wounds.
One member of the local vigilante group, popularly known as Baba Glo, was also killed during the operation.
Baba Glo reportedly lost his life while helping security personnel confront the attackers and rescue the kidnapped residents.
The four victims were recovered unharmed and reunited with members of the community after the operation.
Security personnel and local volunteers have continued searching the surrounding forest areas for the fleeing suspects.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, particularly anyone seeking treatment for unexplained gunshot wounds.
The incident highlights the continuing role of cooperation between conventional security agencies and community-based vigilante groups in responding to kidnapping and banditry in rural areas.
Community members have mourned Baba Glo and praised him for sacrificing his life while defending residents from the armed attackers.
Source: Omanghana
