The Abia State Police Command has successfully rescued four Chinese nationals who were kidnapped by gunmen in Uturu, Isuikwuato Local Government Area of the state.
However, the operation came at a tragic cost, as two of the expatriates—Mr. Quan and Mr. Cai—and their police escort, Inspector Audu Saidu, were killed during a fierce gun battle with the assailants.
The attackers also took Inspector Saidu’s service rifle.
The rescue mission was carried out by a combined team of security agencies, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Uturu Division.
The victims were reportedly on their way to a company site at Agukwu-Amaya in Ndundu Community around 5:30 p.m on Friday when they were ambushed by unidentified gunmen.
Abia State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the incident, stating that a swift joint operation involving the police, military, and other security agencies was initiated immediately upon receiving the report.
As a result, three of the Chinese nationals were rescued unharmed, while one sustained injuries.
Inspector Uba Ahmed, another officer involved in the operation, also suffered a gunshot wound to his leg but is receiving treatment at FMC Abakaliki.
The tactical team, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), visited the crime scene as part of the ongoing search and rescue effort.
Additionally, Inspector Ijeagwa Friday was rescued uninjured through collaboration between the police, military, and local community members.
The Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, reassured the people of Abia State, saying that those responsible for the crime would be brought to justice.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and contact the nearest police station if necessary.
The Command’s emergency lines are 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, and 08079210006.
Meanwhile, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has called for the immediate capture of the gunmen who ambushed and killed two Chinese miners and a police officer at a mining site in Uturu.
Governor Otti expressed outrage at the attack, emphasizing that such violence should not be tolerated.
His media aide, Ferdinand Ekeoma, stated that the governor is committed to supporting security agencies in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
“The governor is enraged that the perpetrators of this senseless attack could carry out such an unprovoked assault on innocent lives,” Ekeoma said.
He assured that the state government would provide the necessary assistance to security forces to ensure that the killers are apprehended.
Governor Otti also expressed his commitment to enhancing security in the state, emphasizing that his government has always prioritized the protection of lives and property. He condemned the attack as an act of terrorism and called for widespread condemnation.
Additionally, the governor pledged to strengthen security cooperation with neighboring states to prevent criminals from crossing into Abia to commit crimes. He further expressed his condolences to the Nigerian Police Force, the Chinese Embassy, and the families of the victims, praying for the peaceful repose of their souls.
