Armed gunmen launched a daring commando-style raid on Aqua Triton Company in Ogunmakin, near Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday.
The attackers killed a courageous police officer who fought back fiercely and abducted the company’s expatriate principal, initially reported as Chinese.
The assailants stormed the facility in broad daylight, exchanging heavy gunfire with security.
The officer died from gunshot wounds while repelling the invasion, and sources indicate several gunmen sustained injuries during the intense shootout.
Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer DSP Olayinka Ayanlade confirmed the tragic events in a detailed statement.
He described the operation as highly coordinated and professional.
Commissioner of Police Femi Haruna acted swiftly upon receiving the report.
He directed the Assistant Commissioner of Operations to lead anti-kidnapping squads and tactical teams to the scene immediately.
Officers now conduct extensive bush-combing operations across the area, while a full investigation continues to track the perpetrators.
Authorities pursue every lead to secure the safe rescue of the abducted expatriate and bring the criminals to justice.
The incident heightens alarm over rising insecurity in rural Southwest Nigeria, where kidnappings increasingly target foreign investors and businesses.
Local residents express deep concern, and security experts warn that such brazen attacks threaten economic activities and foreign confidence in the region.
Police vow to leave no stone unturned until they apprehend the suspects.
