Bandits Strike in Ogun, Kill Soldier and Four Hostages During Attempted Abduction of Chinese Expatriates
By Peace Erewunmi
A soldier and four civilians have been killed following a violent attack by suspected kidnappers at a dredging site in Magbon Village, Mowe, within Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State.
According to the Nigerian Army, the incident occurred when security operatives responded to a distress call from a location where Chinese expatriates were carrying out operations.
Military authorities said the joint team of soldiers and police officers came under attack from armed men suspected to be kidnappers, resulting in a fierce exchange of gunfire.
During the operation, one of the suspected attackers was reportedly neutralised, while the remaining gunmen retreated into nearby forests.
The Army disclosed that the fleeing suspects allegedly seized civilians as hostages while attempting to evade security forces.
Tragically, four of the hostages were later killed before the attackers escaped through a river channel. One hostage reportedly survived and provided information to security personnel.
The incident also claimed the life of a soldier, while another soldier and two police officers sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment.
Security agencies have since intensified patrols and surveillance operations across the area as efforts continue to apprehend the perpetrators.
The attack has renewed concerns over kidnapping and violent crime along the Lagos-Ogun corridor, an area considered strategically important because of its proximity to Nigeria’s commercial capital.
Authorities have assured residents that measures are being taken to strengthen security and prevent further incidents.
