Tragedy struck on Monday evening as workers of Dangote Cement Factory, Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State were abducted by unknown gunmen.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident on Tuesday, stating that the workers were taken at about 6pm while traveling to Okpella community in a Coaster bus after closing from work.
According to the Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegboye, three persons who sustained gunshot injuries during the kidnapping have been rescued and are receiving medical treatment in a hospital.
The police are currently working to rescue the remaining abducted workers and apprehend the perpetrators of the crime.
The incident has caused concern among the community and the company, with many calling for swift action to ensure the safe return of the abducted workers. An investigation into the incident is ongoing.
The statement reads, “On 13th May 2024 at about 2200hrs the Divisional Police Officer of Okpella Division, Edo State received a distress call from the head of security to Dangote Cement Factory Okpella, Edo State that at about 1800hrs a bus conveying Dangote Cement workers from the factory moving to Okpella Town was attacked by the hoodlums suspected to be kidnappers and took some passengers into the bush.
“Immediately, the Divisional Police Officer mobilized his Operatives, Vigilantes group, and the Hunters into the forest for a vigorous bush combing operation to rescue the victims unhurt and to arrest the kidnappers.
“In the process, one Omoba, whose other names are unknown, was rescued, and at a look, it was discovered that he was with some bullet injuries on the back, shot by the hoodlums.
“He was immediately rushed to Halimatu Musa Hospital for medical attention.
“Meanwhile, one other victim who was earlier shot at the point of the attack and another victim, one Victor Okon, were rushed to the same hospital for treatment.”