The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the killing of two officers and the abduction of a Chinese national and a Nigerian during an armed attack on a mining site in Oreke-Okeigbo, Ifelodun Local Government Area.
The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, when unknown gunmen stormed the facility, fatally shooting Assistant Superintendent of Police Haruna Watsai and Inspector Tukur Ogah, both of whom were attached to the 45 Police Mobile Force, Abuja. The attackers also made away with the officers’ rifles.
The Command’s spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, in a statement issued on Thursday on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, confirmed the incident and described it as a “heinous act.”
According to the statement, the victims abducted during the assault were identified as Mr. Sam Xie Wie, a Chinese national, and Mr. David Adenaiye, a Nigerian from Kogi State, both employees at the mining site.
“The command has launched a full-scale investigation and rescue operation,” the statement read, assuring the public that tactical and intelligence-led strategies are in motion to secure the safe release of the hostages and apprehend the perpetrators.
The police further stated that efforts are being intensified in collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders to reinforce security in the area and prevent future occurrences.
Residents have been urged to remain calm and law-abiding while supporting the police with credible information that could assist the ongoing operation.
