Gunmen (file photo)
Jethro Ibileke/Benin

A Chinese expatriate working with the BUA cement company in Edo State, was Monday afternoon abducted and an operative of Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) attached to him shot dead by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers.

The incident occurred at Okpella, Etsako East local government area of the State, during a routine patrol of the company’s quarry site in the area.

It was gathered that the armed men opened fire on sighting the hilux van conveying the Chinese expatriate with the deceased.

Spokesman of the NSCDC in the State, Efosa Ogbebor, who confirmed the report, said their personnel, Mr. Banko Navel was shot dead while trying to protect his principal.

Ogbebor who could not give detailed description of the incident, said the Chinese national was subsequently abducted immediately after eliminating the NSCDC officer.

He however said that efforts is being made by the Corps in collaboration with the police to secure the freedom of the abducted Chinese as well as arresting those behind the act.

“As I speak with you, our personnel and that of the Nigeria Police are combing the bush which they escaped into. Effort will not be spared at bringing those responsible to book,” he said.