Four hostages, soldier die as gunmen attack Chinese expatriates in Ogun dredging site
Four Hostages, Soldier Killed in Kidnapping Incident in Ogun State
MAGBON VILLAGE, Ogun State — A kidnapping incident targeting Chinese expatriates resulted in the deaths of at least four hostages and a soldier in the Mowe area of Obafemi-Owode Local Government on Monday.
According to reports from eyewitnesses, armed men believed to be kidnappers attacked a dredging site, known locally as Capo, early in the morning. During the assault, one soldier guarding the expatriates was killed, and another sustained injuries from gunfire.
A local hunter, assisting law enforcement in the area, also lost his life during the ensuing search for the assailants.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 35 Artillery Brigade, Idereghi Akari, confirmed that troops, in coordination with the Nigerian Police, responded to the distress call at the dredging site. A violent exchange of fire occurred, resulting in the death of one attacker, prompting the remaining assailants to retreat into nearby forested areas.
Akari reported that the kidnappers took five hostages as they fled to avoid capture by a Quick Response Force dispatched to the scene. Tragically, four of the hostages were reportedly killed by the fleeing criminals before the assailants escaped by boat, taking one of their deceased comrades with them.
The army statement detailed that the attack, which unfolded on June 8, 2026, involved a joint security patrol ambushed by armed individuals at the dredging site. In addition to the deceased soldier, another soldier and two police officers were injured.
The bodies of the fallen soldier and the four hostages have been taken to the mortuary at General Hospital, Sagamu. The injured personnel are currently receiving medical care.
In response to the incident, the Quick Response Force and other security agencies have ramped up patrols and surveillance in the area to restore order and prevent further incidents. Major Akari reaffirmed the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, assuring residents that efforts would continue until the suspects are apprehended.
