A brazen attack on a mining site in Zango City, just outside Lokoja, Kogi State capital, left five people dead and two Chinese citizens kidnapped on Monday evening. The assailants, estimated to be around 20, opened fire on the site, killing three vigilante members – identified as Abdulazeez, Tijani, and Yusuf – and two staff members.
The 45-minute assault, which began around 5:00 p.m. local time, sent shockwaves through the community, as gunfire echoed from the nearby hills. Witnesses described the gunmen as bearded men. As the situation spiralled out of control, local business owners hastily closed up shop, and residents fled their homes in search of safety.
A local hunter, who wished to remain anonymous, helped evacuate the bodies and described the scene as gruesome. “This is very bad and worrisome in the State capital,” said Abdul, a resident and shop owner. “We urge the government to step up security measures in the state.”
Despite attempts by local media to reach the police, including the Public Relations Officer, William Anya, officials remained unavailable for comment.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
