Two Chinese nationals and a police officer have been killed in an attack by gunmen in Abia State, according to the Abia State Police Command.
The victims were attacked while on their way to a company site at Agukwu-Amaya, Ndundu Community, Uturu, in the Isuikwuato Local Government Area. They were ambushed by armed men who opened fire on them.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the incident in a statement released on Saturday. She said the victims include Mr. Quan and Mr. Cai—both Chinese nationals—and Inspector Audu Saidu, one of the police escorts. The attackers also took away Inspector Saidu’s rifle.
“Upon receiving the information, operatives from Abia State Command, in a joint operation with the military and other sister agencies, launched a search mission,” the police spokesperson said.
The police said that during the operation, four other Chinese expatriates and two police officers were rescued. One of the Chinese victims and Inspector Uba Ahmed sustained gunshot injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre in Abakaliki.
Chinaka also confirmed that another police officer, Inspector Ijeagwa Friday, was later rescued unharmed with the help of local community members.
The Commissioner of Police in Abia State, Danladi Isa, visited the scene of the attack along with a tactical police team. He has promised that those behind the killings will be caught and punished.
“The Commissioner of Police assures the good people of Abia State that the perpetrators of this heinous crime will be brought to justice,” the statement added.
He also urged residents to remain alert and report any strange activities, persons, or vehicles to the nearest police station or call the police emergency lines: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, 08079210006.
