Soldier killed, several residents feared abducted in Ogun gunmen attack

A soldier has been killed and several residents reportedly abducted following an attack by suspected gunmen on communities in the Mowe area of Ogun State.

The incident occurred at a private dredging site in Magbon Etido community, where the attackers allegedly stormed the facility in an attempt to kidnap an expatriate worker. The expatriate, however, reportedly escaped from the assailants.

Sources in the area said the gunmen had earlier abducted some residents of nearby Karanla community before moving towards the dredging site, where they encountered military personnel on security duty.

During the confrontation, one soldier was killed while another sustained injuries.

Confirming the incident on Monday, the Ogun State Police Command described the attack as an isolated criminal act and dismissed reports linking it to banditry.

In a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, police said security operatives responded promptly after receiving reports of the attack.

“Regrettably, a soldier on security duty lost his life during the incident, while another sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment,” the statement said.

The police spokesman added that officers, working alongside military personnel, had launched coordinated operations aimed at tracking down and arresting those responsible for the attack.

According to the command, preliminary investigations have not established any connection between the incident and bandit activities, stressing that security agencies are continuing tactical operations in the affected communities.

The police further assured residents that the situation has been brought under control, with security presence strengthened in the area to prevent further attacks.

Residents were urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could aid ongoing investigations.