By Atoyebi Nike
Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have killed eight personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Edo State and abducted a Chinese expatriate.
The attack occurred late Friday at the entrance of the BUA Cement Factory in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area, where NSCDC officers were escorting five Chinese nationals after a routine patrol. Four of the expatriates were rescued, while one was taken away by the assailants.
A senior NSCDC officer confirmed the development on Saturday, noting that four other victims sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital. He added that an official statement would be issued from the Corps’ headquarters in Abuja.
“The incident happened on Friday, August 5, 2025, around 10 p.m., when our men were on escort duty. Sadly, eight officers were killed,” the source said.
Edo State Commandant Agun Gbenga has visited both the scene of the attack and the hospital where the injured officers are being treated. Security agencies have since launched a joint operation to track the perpetrators in nearby forests.
Meanwhile, police confirmed the rescue of 16 passengers abducted the same day along the Benin-Auchi Road. According to command spokesperson Moses Yamu, the victims, who were travelling to Abuja, were dragged into the forest before a combined effort by officers, vigilantes, and hunters secured their release.
“The kidnapping took place on Friday at about 16:30 hours. Sixteen victims have been rescued, and search and rescue operations are ongoing,” Yamu said.
These incidents underscore the persistent security challenges in Edo State as authorities intensify measures to restore safety and pursue justice for the victims.
