Rising Insecurity: Police Rescue Four Chinese Expatriates and Officers After Deadly Attack in Uturu | #NwokeukwuMascot

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…As police intensify manhunt for attackers amid public fears | #NwokeukwuMascot

Uturu, Abia State – The underreported growing wave of insecurity in Abia State took a dark turn this week when unidentified gunmen ambushed a group of Chinese expatriates and their police escorts in Uturu, Isuikwuato Local Government Area, leaving three dead, including two expatriates and a police inspector.

The tragic incident, which occurred on Thursday, April 4, 2025, around 5:30 p.m., has once again brought to light the fragile state of security in parts of the state, particularly in the northern axis. The victims were en route to their company site in Agukwu-Amaya, Ndundu Community, Uturu, when they were ambushed by heavily armed assailants in a shocking daylight attack.

According to a statement released by the Abia State Police Command, those killed in the ambush include Mr. Quan and Mr. Cai both Chinese nationals and Inspector Audu Saidu, one of the assigned police escorts. The attackers not only killed Inspector Saidu but also carted away his service rifle, underscoring the increasing brazenness of violent criminals in the region.

Following the incident, a swift joint security response led by the Divisional Police Officer of Uturu, in collaboration with military personnel and other sister security agencies, launched a coordinated search-and-rescue mission. The operation resulted in the rescue of three Chinese expatriates unharmed, while a fourth sustained injuries. Another officer, Inspector Uba Ahmed, was also rescued despite sustaining gunshot wounds to his leg. Both injured victims are currently receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.

In a continued effort to restore calm and track down the perpetrators, the tactical team of the command led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) visited the crime scene on Friday, April 5. Their efforts led to the rescue of another officer, Inspector Ijeagwa Friday, who was found unhurt after the operation.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, while commending the bravery of the operatives, condemned the attack in the strongest terms and assured the public that every effort is being made to ensure that those responsible for the heinous act are apprehended and prosecuted.

He also urged residents of Abia State to remain vigilant and support security operatives by providing credible information. “We call on all citizens to go about their lawful activities without fear, but remain security conscious. Report any suspicious persons, vehicles, or movements to the nearest police station or via our emergency lines,” the CP said.

While the rescue of the kidnapped expatriates has drawn some relief, the incident has heightened fears about the rising tide of violence in Abia State. For many observers, the attack is not only a grim reminder of the vulnerability of foreign investors but also a troubling signal that insecurity is gradually creeping into areas that were once considered relatively peaceful.

Critics have called on the state government to do more to address the festering security lapses, especially in border communities like Uturu, which have recently witnessed a resurgence of criminal activities, including kidnapping, banditry, and armed robbery.

As investigations continue, the Abia State Police Command has provided the following emergency numbers for residents: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, 08079210006

The public awaits not just the arrest of the culprits but a comprehensive strategy by both state and federal authorities to stem the tide of insecurity threatening peace and investment in the region.

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