Gunmen Kill Policeman, Abduct Chinese Expatriate in Oyo

Armed assailants have reportedly killed a police officer and abducted a Chinese expatriate during a violent attack on a farm located in Ogunmakin Community, within the Ibadan axis of Oyo State.

Information gathered revealed that the incident occurred at approximately 1:00 pm on Thursday at Aqua Triton Company, where about ten heavily armed men invaded the premises in what witnesses described as a commando-style operation.

During the attack, the gunmen reportedly stormed the agricultural facility while activities were ongoing. A company director identified as 42-year-old Renjith Pillai was said to be inspecting crops on the farm when the assailants struck. In the process, the attackers seized him and fled the scene.

A police officer attached to the facility attempted to resist the assault and protect lives and property. Unfortunately, the officer lost his life during the confrontation while trying to repel the attackers. Some of the assailants were reportedly injured in the exchange before escaping with the abducted expatriate.

The Police Public Relations Officer in Oyo State, Ayanlade Olayinka, confirmed the incident to journalists. He stated that the officer died in the line of duty while bravely confronting the gunmen. Although the identities of all victims were not officially released, Olayinka confirmed that the abducted individual was a Chinese expatriate and principal staff member of the company.

According to him, security operatives have already launched a coordinated search operation aimed at rescuing the abducted expatriate and apprehending those responsible for the attack.

He further disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Femi Haruna, has ordered an immediate and intensive manhunt across the area and surrounding locations to track down the kidnappers and ensure they are brought to justice.

The incident adds to ongoing security concerns in parts of the state, especially around isolated farming communities, and underscores the risks faced by security personnel and expatriate workers operating in such environments.