Police confirm soldier and local hunter among dead; deserted homes reflect fears of renewed attacks in Ogun communities

No fewer than six persons, including a soldier and a local hunter, have been killed in Fowowawo, Ajerogun, and Magbon-Etido communities in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State following a failed abduction attempt by suspected gunmen on Monday. The incident has triggered mass exodus, with residents abandoning their homes for fear of further violence.

According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers stormed a dredging site in the early hours of Monday targeting a Chinese national. Security operatives and local hunters responded swiftly, leading to an exchange of gunfire which resulted in the deaths. Police Public Relations Officer Babaseyi Oluseyi confirmed that one of the suspected kidnappers was also killed during the shootout.

The affected communities have witnessed reduced activities since the attack, with many houses and shops remaining locked as at Wednesday when our correspondent visited. This latest incident comes three years after a similar kidnapping occurred in the area, during which ransom was reportedly paid before victims were released. Residents expressed concerns over poor road conditions linking the communities to Ofada, where the nearest police post is located, saying it hampers timely security response.

A resident who participated in the rescue efforts recounted that about five gunmen were involved. “We thought there was a fight among workers at the dredging site when we heard gunshots,” he said. “But when we got there with other hunters, we found ourselves surrounded by kidnappers.” He explained that an attempt to alert others led to heavy gunfire from the assailants.

Ogun State Police Command has assured that security presence will be reinforced in the area to prevent further attacks. However, some residents continue to flee out of fear, leaving many buildings deserted. Stakeholders are calling on government to address security lapses and rehabilitate access roads to ensure effective response in future emergencies.

Source: https://punchng.com/residents-flee-ogun-communities-after-six-killed-in-foiled-abduction/