Gunmen have kidnapped two Chinese construction workers in Kwara State, throwing a major infrastructure project into disarray and raising fresh security concerns in the region.
Masked Attackers Storm Construction Site
The violent incident took place in the early hours of Monday, December 2nd, 2024. According to sources, a group of armed men, their faces concealed by masks, invaded the site of the BUA Bode Saadu/Kaiama/Kosubosu road project. The attackers fired multiple shots into the air to terrify workers and local residents before seizing the two foreign nationals and fleeing the scene.
The location of the abduction was the project facility situated within the Ejidongari district of Moro Local Government Area. The Chinese victims were part of the engineering team working on the critical road construction project intended to improve connectivity in the state.
Police Confirmation and Ongoing Silence
The Kwara State Police Command officially confirmed the abduction. The State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, provided details in a telephone conversation on the evening of Thursday, December 4th.
CP Ojo stated, "Yes, the two Chinese were abducted from the construction site. But we have not heard from them yet as the kidnappers have not called as we speak." This confirmation highlights the ongoing uncertainty and the tense wait for a ransom demand or communication from the captors.
Implications for Security and Development
This kidnapping has several immediate consequences:
- Project Disruption: The attack halts work on a vital infrastructure project, causing delays and financial losses.
- Security Alarm: It signals a brazen security breach in an area hosting expatriate workers and major investments.
- International Concern: Abductions of foreign nationals can deter international partnerships and skilled labor essential for Nigeria's development.
The Kwara State Police are expected to have launched a full-scale investigation and search operation to locate the victims and apprehend the perpetrators. The community remains on edge as authorities work to address this serious security challenge.
