Gunmen Kill Eight NSCDC Operatives, Abduct Chinese Expatriate

Gunmen killed eight operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Edo State on Friday night during an ambush that also led to the abduction of a Chinese expatriate. The attack occurred around 10 p.m. at the entrance of a cement company in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area, where the officers were escorting five Chinese nationals back to base after a patrol.

According to witnesses, the attackers, armed with sophisticated weapons, opened fire on the convoy, killing the operatives and a civilian. Four expatriates were rescued unhurt, while one was taken away by the gunmen. Four NSCDC personnel sustained injuries and are receiving treatment in hospital.

In a statement issued on Saturday, NSCDC spokesperson Afolabi Babawale described the incident as grievous and confirmed that Commandant-General Ahmed Audi has directed senior officers in Edo to console the bereaved families and ensure the fallen personnel are buried with full honours. He added that the corps will cover the medical expenses of the injured operatives.

Audi praised the sacrifice of the slain officers, saying their labour, commitment, and patriotism would not be forgotten. Security agencies have begun combing the forests in Etsako East to track down the attackers and secure the release of the abducted expatriate. The corps reaffirmed its resolve to continue carrying out its mandate despite the attack.