The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps has assured the families of its six officers killed in last Friday’s attack in Okpella, Edo State, of full support, including burial honours and welfare packages.

Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers had ambushed operatives of the corps attached to the BUA Cement Factory, killing the personnel and abducting a Chinese expatriate, while four of his colleagues were rescued. Several others sustained injuries and are receiving treatment.

In a statement, the Commandant General of the Corps, Ahmed Audi, directed the Edo State Command to condole with the bereaved families and ensure their late colleagues are buried with full honours.

He also promised that the medical bills of those injured would be fully covered by the corps.

“The labour, commitment and patriotism displayed by the operatives will forever be remembered. Their families will not be left alone in this difficult time,” Audi stated.

Confirming the development on Monday, the Edo State Command Public Relations Officer, Efosa Ogbebor, said the corps headquarters in Abuja had taken over the matter, both in terms of the ongoing investigation and the welfare of the deceased officers’ dependents.

“For the victims, communication has been established with families by the corps headquarters, and the welfare of the families they left behind is being handled directly by the national headquarters,” Ogbebor said.

He added that security operatives were still combing the forests in collaboration with other agencies to ensure the perpetrators were apprehended and the abducted expatriate rescued.

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]