Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has urgently ordered security agencies to launch a full-scale manhunt for the gunmen responsible for the brutal killings of two Chinese miners and a police officer in Uturu, Isuikwuato Local Government Area. The victims were ambushed on Friday while heading to a mining site in the Agukwu-Amaya, Ndundu Community.
The attack has shocked the state, with the Governor expressing outrage over the senseless violence. In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Governor Otti condemned the ambush in the strongest terms. He vowed that his administration would not rest until the perpetrators are brought to justice, assuring the public that his government would offer full support to security forces to ensure that the criminals do not escape punishment.
The Governor reiterated that his government is committed to providing a safe environment for businesses to thrive, emphasizing that the protection of lives and properties is a top priority. He also pledged to strengthen security partnerships with neighboring states to create a robust security framework aimed at preventing cross-border crimes from spilling into Abia. This, he stated, was a key factor in the recent attack, where criminals crossed into Abia to carry out the killings.
In a show of solidarity, Governor Otti expressed his condolences to the Nigerian Police Force, the Chinese Embassy, and the bereaved families. He offered his heartfelt prayers for the souls of the deceased.
According to the Abia State Police Command, the tragic ambush took place at around 5:30 pm on Friday. The victims, two Chinese nationals, Mr. Quan and Mr. Cai, and Inspector Audu Saidu, a police escort, were shot dead, and the attackers made off with the officer’s rifle.
Fortunately, a joint rescue operation led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Uturu resulted in the safe recovery of four other Chinese workers and two police officers. The security operation involved personnel from the police, military, and other security agencies.
The Commissioner of Police in Abia, Danladi Isa, confirmed the tragic incident and has ordered a swift manhunt for the culprits. Authorities are leaving no stone unturned in the effort to apprehend those responsible for the violent act.
