Four dead as unidentified gunmen Friday night launched an attack on the Kogi state office of the Department of State Security Service (DSS) located at Zone 8 area in Lokoja, the state capital.
According to eyewitnesses account, it was learnt that the gunmen who invaded the office at about 9.45 pm engaged the officials on duty in a gun duel leading to the death of three of the attackers and a mobile policeman.
It was gathered that the gunmen after gaining entry into the office, immediately went to the cell of the agency where they reportedly released some inmates that were under detention.
Also, patrol team of the police and army in response to distressed calls put across to them mobilized quickly to the scene to repel the attacks.
It was further learnt that two of the attackers who were trying to flee through a River in the area were apprehended and disarmed by the army.
When contacted, the State Police Commissioner, Emmanuel Ojukwu confirmed the incident, saying investigations are still on to find out those behind the attack.
He said three of the attackers were killed in the ensuing gun battle while the Command lost one its men in the attack.
“I can confirm to you that last night at about 9.45 pm, a security facility in Lokoja was attacked by criminal elements. The police responded promptly in confine with other security agencies and we were able to repel the attack.
“Three of the attackers were shot dead and we lost a policeman in the process. For now, we are still investigating to find out who carried out the attack but for now, suffice it to say they are criminal elements”, Ojukwu said.
Ojukwu said he could not confirm the reported release of some inmates by the attackers, saying investigation is still on.