Abia State – Governor Alex Otti has directed security operatives to launch a full-scale manhunt for the armed assailants who ambushed and killed two Chinese miners and a Nigerian police officer in Uturu, Isuikwuato Local Government Area.
The victims were attacked on Friday while heading to a mining site in Agukwu-Amaya, Ndundu Community. In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Governor Otti condemned the gruesome act, expressing deep outrage and vowing that the perpetrators would not escape justice.
“Governor Otti is enraged that the perpetrators of the dastardly act could unleash such an unprovoked attack on innocent persons,” the statement read. “His administration will continue to support all security agencies to ensure that those responsible are swiftly apprehended.”
Highlighting his administration’s commitment to both economic development and public safety, Otti reaffirmed his resolve to create a secure environment for businesses and citizens alike. He also disclosed plans to strengthen cross-border security cooperation with neighboring states to prevent criminal infiltration into Abia.
The governor extended heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Police Force, the Chinese Embassy, and the bereaved families, praying for the peaceful repose of the souls lost.
Confirming the incident, the Abia State Police Command, through its spokesperson DSP Maureen Chinaka, identified the victims as Chinese nationals Mr. Quan and Mr. Cai, alongside Inspector Audu Saidu, who served as their escort. The attackers reportedly escaped with the police officer’s rifle.
However, four other Chinese workers and two police officers were successfully rescued in a joint operation led by the Divisional Police Officer of Uturu, in collaboration with military and other security agencies.
The state’s Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, has since ordered an intensive manhunt to apprehend the culprits and bring them to justice.
