Police restore calm after reprisal killings in Kogi community

The Kogi State Police Command has announced the restoration of calm in Abugi and nearby communities after a series of reprisal killings. The violence resulted in the deaths of at least five individuals, reportedly stemming from an earlier killing of a herder in the area.

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The Area Command, Lokoja, in conjunction with relevant security and community stakeholders, conducted critical engagements with traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders, focusing on reconciliation, restoration of peaceful coexistence and addressing the underlying causes of the conflict.

According to a statement from the Command's spokesperson, ASP Salisu Afusat, decisive actions have been taken to prevent further escalation and re-establish peace. The Area Command in Lokoja, in collaboration with security agencies and community stakeholders, engaged traditional rulers and leaders to foster reconciliation and address the conflict's root causes.

A full-scale investigation has been launched by the State Criminal Investigation Department to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in the killings. The police emphasized their commitment to pursuing the investigation diligently and bringing any culpable suspects to justice.

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The investigation will be pursued diligently, and any suspect found culpable will be brought before the law to face the appropriate legal consequences.

Security personnel remain strategically deployed in the affected communities to maintain peace and protect lives and property. While normalcy has returned, the investigation continues, underscoring the Command's dedication to ensuring accountability for the loss of life. The Commissioner of Police urged the public to cooperate by reporting suspicious activities.

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The restoration of calm, however, does not in any way halt the ongoing investigation, as the Command remains committed to ensuring that those responsible for the loss of lives are identified and brought to justice.