A soldier was killed, another injured, and several residents reportedly abducted after armed men attacked Karanla community in the Magbon Etido area of Mowe, Ogun State.
The attack occurred on Tuesday at a private dredging site where military personnel were providing security.
According to local sources, the gunmen, suspected to be kidnappers, attempted to abduct an expatriate working at the site. The expatriate reportedly escaped, but some workers and residents were not as fortunate.
Reports shared by the Mowe/Ibafo Community platform on X claimed that the attackers had abducted several people in Karanla before encountering security personnel. During the ensuing exchange of gunfire, one soldier was killed while another sustained injuries.
Security reinforcements were later deployed to the area to restore order.
Sources said some of the abducted victims managed to escape during the gun battle, while security operatives intensified efforts to rescue others still in captivity and apprehend the attackers.
The incident triggered panic among residents, with some initially describing the attackers as bandits.
However, the Ogun State Police Command dismissed claims that the attack was linked to banditry.
In a statement issued on Tuesday night, the command's spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, described the incident as an isolated criminal attack.
“The security incident recorded at a private dredging site in Magbon Etido, Mowe, was an isolated criminal attack and not a bandit operation as being speculated in some quarters,” Babaseyi said.
He added that police officers and military personnel responded promptly and had launched a joint operation to track down those responsible.
“Following the report, police operatives, in collaboration with the military, swiftly mobilised to the area and commenced coordinated operations to apprehend those responsible.
“Preliminary findings do not indicate any connection between the incident and banditry activities in Ogun State. Investigations and tactical operations remain ongoing,” he said.
The police said the injured soldier was receiving medical treatment and assured residents that the situation had been brought under control.
According to the command, security presence in the area has been strengthened to prevent further attacks, while efforts continue to arrest the suspects and secure the release of any remaining hostages.
Residents were urged to remain calm and continue their lawful activities as investigations continue.
