Operatives of the Abia State Police Command successfully rescued four Chinese nationals who had been kidnapped by gunmen in Uturu, located in the Isuikwuato Local Government Area. However, the operation resulted in the tragic deaths of two of the expatriates, Mr. Quan and Mr. Cai, as well as their police escort, Inspector Audu Saidu, who were killed during a violent gun battle with the attackers. The assailants also managed to steal Inspector Saidu’s service rifle.
The daring rescue operation was led by the Divisional Police Officer of Uturu, alongside a combined team of security forces. The victims had been on their way to a company site in Agukwu-Amaya, Ndundu Community, at around 5:30 p.m. on Friday when they were ambushed by unidentified gunmen.
Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the incident and reported that a swift joint operation involving the police, military, and other security agencies was immediately initiated. This led to the successful rescue of four expatriates. Three of the Chinese nationals were unharmed, while one sustained injuries. Additionally, Inspector Uba Ahmed, who was also rescued, suffered a gunshot wound to his leg. Both the injured officer and expatriate are currently receiving treatment at FMC Abakaliki and are said to be responding well.
As part of ongoing search and rescue efforts, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), along with tactical team operatives, visited the crime scene. Through coordinated action between the police, military, and local community members, another officer, Inspector Ijeagwa Friday, was rescued unhurt.
The Commissioner of Police for Abia State, CP Danladi Isa, reassured residents that the perpetrators of this crime would be apprehended and brought to justice. He urged the public to stay alert and continue their daily activities without fear, while encouraging them to report any suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station or via emergency numbers: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, or 08079210006.
Meanwhile, the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has called for a concerted effort to apprehend the gunmen responsible for the ambush, which also resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals and a police officer. Governor Otti expressed his outrage over the unprovoked attack, emphasizing his government’s commitment to providing security forces with the necessary resources to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The Governor, through his media aide Ferdinand Ekeoma, condemned the attack, describing it as an act of terrorism. He also vowed to enhance security cooperation with neighboring states to prevent criminals from crossing into Abia and committing crimes. He expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, the Nigerian Police Force, and the Chinese Embassy, while praying for the souls of the deceased.
Governor Otti concluded by reiterating his administration’s dedication to creating a secure environment for both businesses and the citizens of Abia.