Gunmen have abducted two Chinese nationals in the Kemta area, near Onigbedu in the Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State. The incident, which occurred over the weekend, has raised alarm among residents and security forces alike, highlighting the growing insecurity in parts of Nigeria.
The Ogun State Police Command, through its spokesperson Omolola Odutola, confirmed the unfortunate development on Monday in Abeokuta. Odutola revealed that the police, alongside other security agencies, are making concerted efforts to secure the release of the abducted individuals. The victims, identified as Wenguang and Ding, are employees of a Chinese-owned company operating in the area, and their kidnapping has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond.
The abduction reportedly took place while the Chinese nationals were on their way to work, a scenario that has become increasingly common in some parts of the country. The kidnappers, whose identities remain unknown, have already made contact with the victims’ employer, demanding a ransom for their release.
This was confirmed by the company’s security supervisor, who disclosed that one of the expatriates managed to make a brief call before communication was cut off. In the call, he informed the supervisor that Wenguang and Ding had been seized by the gunmen and that the kidnappers were demanding a significant sum of money as a ransom.
In response to the kidnapping, the Ogun State Police Command, in collaboration with local vigilante groups, military personnel from the Social Orientation and Safety Corps, local hunters, and other security operatives, launched an extensive search operation across the dense forests of Kemta Village, where the incident occurred. Despite their best efforts, which included combing through the thick undergrowth and navigating challenging terrain, the security teams were unable to locate the abducted men.
The situation has become increasingly tense, as the safety of the victims remains uncertain. However, Odutola assured the public that the police and other security agencies are not relenting in their efforts. She emphasized that the command is utilizing all available resources and intelligence to track down the kidnappers and ensure the safe return of Wenguang and Ding.Â
She also expressed confidence that with the continued support of the local community and the combined expertise of the various security forces involved, the victims would be found and brought back unharmed.
This incident is part of a troubling pattern of abductions targeting both locals and expatriates in Nigeria, a situation that has become a major security concern. Kidnapping for ransom has become a lucrative criminal enterprise for some groups, particularly in areas where law enforcement and security infrastructure are stretched thin.
The Ogun State government and security agencies are under pressure to address this growing threat, as such incidents not only endanger lives but also have broader implications for the local economy and foreign investment.
As the search continues, the families of the victims, their colleagues, and the local community remain on edge, anxiously awaiting positive news. The Ogun State Police Command has urged anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in the efforts to rescue the kidnapped expatriates. Meanwhile, the authorities have also called for increased vigilance and cooperation among residents to help prevent such incidents in the future.
The case of Wenguang and Ding is a stark reminder of the challenges posed by insecurity in Nigeria and the need for a coordinated approach to tackling the root causes of crime. As efforts to secure their release continue, the authorities urge residents to be involved and vigilante as they hope to secure the release of the hostages.
