Some yet-to-be-identified gunmen, on Saturday, attacked Aqua Triton Company located in Ogunmakin, near Ibadan, Oyo State, killing a police officer and abducting a Chinese expatriate in what police described as a coordinated, commando-style operation.
The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that the attackers invaded the facility in the early hours and confronted security personnel on duty before fleeing with the expatriate.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed that the assailants arrived at the premises heavily armed and opened fire on security operatives guarding the company.
“There was an attack at Aqua Triton Company in Ogunmakin, near Ibadan, Oyo State, where yet-to-be-identified gunmen stormed the facility in a commando-style operation,” Ayanlade said.
According to him, the police officer on duty paid the supreme price while attempting to repel the attackers.
“One police officer tragically died while repelling the attack. Some of the assailants were also injured during the exchange before they escaped with the Chinese expatriate principal,” he added.
The police spokesperson said the attackers overwhelmed the security team after a brief but fierce gun duel, seized the expatriate and escaped into nearby bushes.
He said the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Femi Haruna, was promptly informed of the development and ordered an immediate and coordinated response.
“Immediately informed, the Commissioner of Police directed the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of operations to lead the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and other tactical teams to the scene,” Ayanlade said.
He explained that security operatives have since launched an intensive bush-combing operation across Ogunmakin and adjoining communities in an effort to rescue the abducted expatriate and arrest the suspects.
According to him, a comprehensive investigation has also commenced to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those behind it.
“A bush-combing operation is ongoing, and a full investigation has been launched to ensure the safe rescue of the victim and the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators,” the police spokesperson stated.
The police assured residents, workers and business owners in the area that adequate measures have been put in place to restore calm and reinforce security around Ogunmakin and its environs.
Ayanlade urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by supplying useful information that could aid ongoing operations.
He said, “We appeal to members of the public with relevant information to come forward and assist the police. All information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.”
The attack has raised security concerns among residents and business operators in the area, who described the incident as bold and troubling.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the gunmen arrived in a coordinated manner and operated for several minutes before escaping.
“They were heavily armed and clearly came with a mission. The sound of gunshots threw the whole area into panic,” he said.
Meanwhile, the body of the slain police officer has been deposited in a morgue, while efforts continue to locate the abducted expatriate and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The police reiterated their commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
