Gunmen kill eight NSCDC operatives in Edo, abduct Chinese expatriate

Eight operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were killed on Friday night during an ambush by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers.

The incident was said to have happened at the premises of a cement company in Okpella, Etsako East LGA of Edo state.

The operatives, who were escorting five Chinese expatriates back to base after a routine patrol, were attacked around 10 p.m. at the company’s entrance.

A civilian reportedly lost his life in the incident.

Sources said the gunmen, armed with sophisticated weapons, opened fire on the convoy.

Four of the expatriates were rescued unhurt, while one was abducted. Four NSCDC personnel sustained injuries and are receiving treatment in a hospital.

In a statement on Saturday, Afolabi Babawale, NSCDC spokesperson, described the incident as “grievous”, noting that Ahmed Audi, the corps commandant-general, has vowed that the sacrifices of the slain operatives will not be forgotten.

“The labour, commitment and patriotism displayed by our operatives will forever be remembered. The corps stands firmly with their families at this moment of grief,” the statement reads.

Audi also directed senior officers in Edo to visit the bereaved families and ensure the fallen personnel are buried with full honours. He said the corps will foot the medical bills of the injured officers.

The NSCDC added that security agencies are already combing forests in Etsako East to rescue the abducted expatriate and apprehend the attackers.

“This cowardly attack will not deter us from carrying out our duties,” the agency said.