Apprehension has spread across several communities in Odual, Abua/Odual Local Government Area of Rivers State following reports of gunmen, suspected to be kidnappers, allegedly killing two soldiers.

The incident transpired on the Ekaago-Ogboloma-Adada road project site, a State Government undertaking, on August 8, 2023.

The project, initiated by the former Governor Nyesom Wike, has been a focal point of development in the area.

According to sources within the communities, the assailants attempted to abduct a foreign national at the construction site, but their primary targets managed to evade capture.

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However, three project workers and a local farmer returning from his field were kidnapped during the operation.

Sources stated that the criminals laid an ambush and attacked the army personnel stationed there.

In the ensuing confrontation, two soldiers lost their lives, and the hoodlums seized their rifles before escaping via the Esala river after an intense exchange of gunfire.

The Army has reportedly made some arrests in connection with the attack, yet concerns loom over the safety of residents within the affected communities.

The incident has stirred anxiety, reflecting the precarious security situation in the region.