Gunmen strikes Chinese construction site, kill soldier, driver in deadly attack

Tragedy struck in Nunya, a quiet community in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, on Saturday evening, July 12, 2025, as gunmen suspected to be kidnappers launched a brutal attack on a Chinese construction site, leaving two people dead.

Eyewitnesses reported that about six assailants, dressed in military camouflage and armed with assault rifles, stormed the site on three motorcycles. Without warning, they opened fire on workers and security personnel.

A driver working for the Chinese engineering firm was killed instantly, while a soldier assigned as part of the security escort for the project was also fatally shot during the ambush. The attackers reportedly fled the scene immediately after the deadly assault, raising fears of a targeted abduction attempt or an orchestrated disruption of ongoing infrastructure work in the area.

A soldier providing security at the site was also shot dead, with his rifle allegedly taken by the attackers before they fled.

Findings indicated that the assailants may have crossed over from a neighboring state and are believed to be part of a notorious kidnapping gang.

Sources also alleged that the attack was led by a suspected criminal with military training who is currently on the run.

Security operatives responded swiftly, conducting a coordinated operation in the area. The remains of the deceased driver were evacuated and deposited at the Hospital. Some spent AK-47 ammunition shells were reportedly recovered at the scene.

Following a tip-off, a suspect believed to have links to the attack was arrested at a hideout in Umuahia North Local Government Area. He is currently being detained and undergoing interrogation, while efforts to apprehend other fleeing suspects continue.

As of the time of filing this report, no official statement has been issued by the Abia State Police Command. All efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, for comment were unsuccessful.

Security operations remain active in the area as authorities intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.