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BENIN CITY — Eight operatives of Nigeria’s Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were killed on Friday night in a deadly ambush by armed assailants in Edo State, southern Nigeria. The attack targeted a convoy escorting Chinese expatriate workers employed at the BUA Cement facility in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area.
According to NSCDC spokesperson Afolabi Babawale, four Chinese nationals were initially abducted during the assault, but were later rescued. One expatriate remains missing. Four additional NSCDC personnel sustained serious injuries and are receiving medical treatment.
The gunmen reportedly laid in wait near the company’s entrance before opening fire, triggering a prolonged exchange with security forces. Authorities have since launched a coordinated manhunt involving multiple agencies to locate the perpetrators and secure the remaining hostage.
The incident underscores rising security concerns in Nigeria, where kidnapping for ransom has spread beyond the northern regions into the south. Investigations are ongoing, and the NSCDC has pledged to intensify efforts to restore safety in the area.
