Some Chinese expatriates were saved from kidnappers by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Okpella village of Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State after gun duel that lasted for about three hours
A statement on Saturday, 6 September, 2025, by spokesman of the NSCDC, Afolabi Babawale read that: In a gun duel that lasted for three hours on 5th September 2025; a gang of Armed Kidnappers launched a grievous attack against the Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps attached to BUA Cement Company, Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State”.
Babawale noted the the the Operatives were deployed to provide adequate security and ensure the security coverage of the Chinese Expatriates working at the Company.
He said: “Quite unfortunately, the convoy of both NSCDC Operatives and the Chinese Expatriates were ambushed during a routine patrol leaving four personnel dead, four seriously injured, one of the expatriates missing and four expatriates rescued and saved.”
Babawale said: “The Corps’ wish to reiterate its commitment to Protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure and wholly condemn such attack.”
Speaking on the matter the NSCDC Commandant General, Professor Ahmed Audi directed the Edo State Commandant and other Management Staff Officers to pay condolences to the families of the gallant operatives who lost their lives in line of duty and further make arrangements for their burial with full honour.
The NSCDC Boss noted that the labour, commitment and patriotism displayed by the operatives will forever be remembered.
He also said that those under intensive care would have their medical bills covered and adequate treatments given to make them recuperate speedily.
Audi appreciated the relevant security agencies who have collaborated with the NSCDC to ensure that the forest where the kidnappers escaped are properly combed in order to rescue the abducted expatriate and the Perpetrators immediately apprehended and brought to book.
He said: “The Corps wish to state categorically that all embellished reports earlier made be ignored as the CG is wholly committed to the welfare, safety and care of the officers and men noting that this occurrence will not discourage the Corps from discharging it’s statutory mandate in protection of critical national assets and infrastructure.”
