Tension as gunmen kill policeman, abduct Chinese expatriate in Oyo

IBADAN — A wave of panic swept through the Ogunmakin community near Ibadan, Oyo State, following a deadly attack by suspected kidnappers on the facility of Aqua Triton Company, which left a police officer dead and a Chinese national abducted.

Gistlife gathered that the assailants, who remain unidentified, stormed the company premises in a commando-style operation, unleashing a barrage of gunfire that resulted in a fierce shootout with security operatives on duty.

During the heavy exchange of fire, a police officer attached to the company reportedly paid the supreme price while gallantly repelling the attackers. Security sources hinted that some of the gunmen also sustained gunshot wounds before fleeing into the surrounding bush.

However, the attackers succeeded in whisking away a Chinese expatriate, identified as the principal officer of the company, to an unknown destination.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the Oyo State Command, SP Olayinka Ayanlade, stated that the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, was immediately notified of the development.

According to the PPRO, the CP has ordered an immediate and aggressive tactical response.

“The Commissioner of Police has directed the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations to lead the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and other tactical teams to the scene.

“A massive bush-combing operation is currently ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted expatriate and the apprehension of the perpetrators,” Ayanlade disclosed.

The Command has assured residents of the area that it remains committed to restoring calm and bringing the criminals to justice, urging members of the public to provide timely and useful information to aid the ongoing manhunt.