Nigerian soldier, four hostages killed in Ogun abduction attempt

A Nigerian soldier and four hostages have died following a failed attempt to abduct Chinese expatriates in Ogun State. The incident occurred on June 8 when suspected kidnappers ambushed a joint security team responding to a distress call at a dredging site where expatriate workers were operating.

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Troops of 35 Artillery Brigade, in conjunction with personnel of the Nigerian Police Force on joint patrol duty, have foiled a kidnapping attempt targeting Chinese expatriates at Magbon Village in the Mowe area of Obafemi Owode Local Government Area, Ogun State.

A fierce gun battle ensued, resulting in the death of one attacker. The remaining assailants then retreated towards the Ogun River, taking five hostages with them to use as human shields against pursuing security forces. The kidnappers later killed four of the hostages before escaping via the river.

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A fierce exchange of fire ensued, during which one of the attackers was neutralised. The remaining assailants reportedly abandoned their mission and withdrew through the surrounding forest towards the Ogun River, taking five hostages as human shields to evade pursuit by a Quick Response Force deployed as reinforcement.

One hostage managed to escape and reported that the assailants had taken the body of their slain accomplice. The Nigerian Army confirmed the soldier's death and stated that another soldier and two police officers sustained gunshot injuries. The injured personnel are receiving medical attention, and security agencies have intensified patrols in the area to restore calm.

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The four hostages were later killed by the fleeing attackers before they escaped through the river channel in a boat. One of the hostages who escaped narrated how the assailants took the body of their dead colleague along with them.