Soldier Killed, Another Injured as Gunmen Attack Ogun Dredging Site; Police Reject Banditry Claims

Soldier Killed, Another Injured as Gunmen Attack Ogun Dredging Site; Police Reject Banditry Claims

June 9, 2026

The Ogun State Police Command has moved to calm growing public concerns following a deadly attack on a private dredging site in Mowe, Ogun State, which claimed the life of a soldier and left another military personnel injured.

Amid widespread speculation that the attack may have been carried out by bandits, the police have firmly dismissed such claims, describing the incident as an isolated criminal operation rather than an act linked to organised banditry.

The attack, which occurred at a private dredging facility located in Magbon Etido, Mowe, sent shockwaves through the community and raised fears among residents already worried about increasing security challenges across parts of Nigeria.

In an official statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the command confirmed that armed assailants attacked the site, resulting in the death of a soldier who was deployed to provide security at the facility. Another soldier sustained injuries during the assault and is currently receiving medical treatment.

According to the police spokesperson, security agencies responded swiftly after receiving reports of the attack. A joint security operation involving police officers and military personnel was immediately launched to track down the perpetrators and prevent any further security threat in the area.

"The Ogun State Police Command wishes to clarify that the security incident recorded at a private dredging site in Magbon Etido, Mowe, was an isolated criminal attack and not a bandit operation as being speculated in some quarters," the statement said.

"Regrettably, a soldier on security duty lost his life during the incident, while another sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment."

The command stressed that preliminary investigations conducted so far have not established any connection between the attackers and known bandit groups operating in other parts of the country.

Police authorities noted that while investigations remain ongoing, available intelligence does not support claims that the incident was part of a larger banditry network.

"Preliminary findings do not indicate any connection between the incident and banditry activities. Investigations and tactical operations remain ongoing," the statement added.

The police also assured residents of Mowe and neighbouring communities that the security situation remains under control. Additional personnel have reportedly been deployed to strengthen security presence in the area and reassure members of the public.

"The Command assures residents that the situation is under control, security presence has been reinforced, and there is no cause for alarm," Babaseyi stated.

Despite the assurances, authorities have yet to reveal the exact circumstances surrounding the attack or provide details about the identities and motives of the gunmen. Security agencies say operational considerations and ongoing investigations prevent the release of further information at this stage.

The killing of the soldier has once again highlighted concerns over attacks on security personnel and critical infrastructure across the country. Residents and stakeholders are now calling for intensified surveillance and stronger security measures to protect communities and businesses operating in vulnerable locations.

As investigations continue, security agencies have vowed to leave no stone unturned in identifying, tracking, and bringing those responsible for the deadly attack to justice.

The incident remains under close watch, with authorities urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or activities that could assist ongoing security operations.m