Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers on Friday night carried out a deadly attack in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area (LGA) of Edo state, killing eight officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and abducting a Chinese expatriate.

Blueprint gathered that the assailants also injured four NSCDC personnel and one civilian, who are currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

The incident has sparked widespread fear in the community and raised questions about security in the region.

According to preliminary reports, the attack occurred late in the evening, targeting NSCDC officers stationed in Okpella.

According to eyewitnesses, the assailants arrived in multiple vehicles and launched a coordinated assault.

The victims were caught off guard while performing their official duties, resulting in the high casualty rate.

Residents described the scene as chaotic, with gunfire heard across the town and people fleeing to safer areas.

The attackers reportedly overpowered the security personnel before abducting the Chinese expatriate, whose identity has not yet been disclosed.

In addition to the eight officials who were killed, four NSCDC personnel sustained injuries of varying severity.

One civilian was also injured during the attack. All injured victims have been moved to a hospital whose location has not been disclosed, as authorities continue to ensure their safety.

Meanwhile, the Edo State Command of the NSCDC and other security agencies has launched an investigation into the incident.

Efforts are underway to track down the perpetrators and secure the release of the abducted expatriate.

Security checkpoints and patrols have been increased in and around Okpella to prevent further attacks.