Soldier, Four Hostages Killed as Troops Foil Kidnap Attempt on Chinese Expatriates in Ogun
Joint Army-Police operation repels armed kidnappers targeting foreign workers, but deadly gun battle leaves soldier and hostages dead.
A joint security operation involving the Nigerian Army and Police has foiled an attempted abduction of Chinese expatriates in Ogun State. While the operation successfully disrupted the kidnapping plot, a soldier and four hostages lost their lives during the confrontation as security agencies intensify efforts to hunt down the fleeing attackers.
A dramatic rescue operation by security forces has prevented the abduction of Chinese expatriates working at a dredging site in Ogun State, but not before a deadly confrontation claimed the lives of a soldier and four hostages.
The incident occurred at Magbon Village in the Mowe area of Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area, where troops of the 35 Artillery Brigade, working alongside personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, responded to a distress call from expatriate workers under threat from suspected kidnappers.
Troops Ambushed During Rescue Mission
According to military authorities, the joint security team came under heavy attack shortly after arriving at the scene.
The suspected kidnappers reportedly launched an ambush, triggering a fierce gun battle with security operatives.
Despite the attack, troops successfully disrupted the kidnapping attempt and neutralised one of the suspected criminals.
“The joint security team was ambushed by armed men suspected to be kidnappers while responding to a distress call around a dredging site where expatriate workers were engaged in operations,” the Army said.
Hostages Used as Human Shields
Military officials disclosed that as the attackers retreated, they abducted five individuals and used them as human shields while escaping through nearby forests.
The kidnappers reportedly moved towards the Ogun River area in an attempt to evade pursuing security forces.
Tragically, four of the hostages were later killed by the fleeing criminals before they escaped through a river channel using a boat.
One surviving victim reportedly managed to escape and alerted security personnel to the killings.
The operation also resulted in casualties among security personnel.
A soldier attached to the rescue team was killed during the exchange of gunfire, while another soldier and two police officers sustained gunshot injuries.
The injured officers are currently receiving medical treatment.
Authorities confirmed that the remains of the slain soldier and the four murdered hostages have been deposited at the General Hospital mortuary in Sagamu.
Manhunt Underway
Following the attack, security agencies have launched an intensified manhunt for the fleeing suspects.
Troops, police operatives and other security personnel have increased patrols and surveillance operations across the affected communities to prevent further attacks and restore confidence among residents.
Authorities have yet to release the identities of the victims, while investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
