Eight operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil
Defence Corps (NSCDC) were killed on Friday, September 5, 2025, when
unknown gunmen ambushed their convoy in Okpella, Etsako East Local
Government Area of Edo State. Several others sustained injuries.
According to a statement by NSCDC National Public
Relations Officer, CSC Afolabi Babawale, the personnel were deployed to
provide security for Chinese expatriates working at the BUA Cement Company
when they came under a violent attack.
The armed gang reportedly launched a coordinated
assault on the patrol convoy, leading to a three-hour gun battle.
While four expatriates were rescued, one remains missing. Injured operatives
are currently receiving medical treatment.
NSCDC Commandant General, Professor Ahmed Abubakar
Audi, mni, OFR, condemned the killings, describing the fallen officers as “gallant
patriots whose sacrifice will forever be remembered.” He directed the Edo
State Command to convey condolences to the bereaved families and ensure that
burial rites are conducted with full honours.
Professor Audi also pledged that the corps will cover
the medical bills of the injured personnel, while assuring continued
collaboration with other security agencies to track the attackers, rescue the
abducted expatriate, and restore calm in the area.
He emphasized that the NSCDC remains resolute in
safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure, urging the
public to disregard embellished reports of the incident.
The Okpella ambush, one of the deadliest attacks on
security personnel in Edo State this year, has once again highlighted the growing
risks faced by operatives protecting expatriates and industrial facilities
in volatile regions.
Comments:
Leave a Reply