Armed Attack at Kwara Mining Site Claims Two Police Lives, Two Others Kidnapped
The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed a violent assault on a mining operation in Oreke-Okeigbo, Ifelodun Local Government Area, which tragically resulted in the deaths of two police officers and the kidnapping of two individuals, including a Chinese national.
According to a statement from Police Public Relations Officer SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the incident took place on the evening of Wednesday, June 4. The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Oreke reported that unidentified gunmen stormed the mining site, fatally shooting ASP Haruna Watsai and Inspector Tukur Ogah, both members of the 45 PMF, Abuja, who were on duty protecting the facility. The assailants also seized the rifles belonging to the slain officers.
In addition to the killings, the attackers abducted Mr. Sam Xie Wie, a Chinese expatriate, and Mr. David Adenaiye, a local worker from Kogi State employed at the mining site.
Kwara State Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, condemned the savage attack and assured the public that focused tactical and intelligence-led operations are underway to secure the release of the kidnapped individuals and bring the culprits to justice.
The police command is working hand in hand with other security agencies and local community leaders to bolster security measures and prevent further incidents. Residents have been urged to stay calm, obey the law, and provide any reliable information that could assist in the ongoing investigations and rescue efforts.
Updates will be provided as the situation develops, the statement concluded.