Mining services company Macmahon is working to secure the release of seven employees, including three Australians, kidnapped during a deadly attack near its operations in Nigeria.
A local employee was fatally shot in the incident near the city of Calabar, and three Australians, two Nigerians, a New Zealander and a South African were abducted, Macmahon said on Thursday.
"We are working to ensure the safe return of all the men involved and are in communication with their families," the company said.
"Counselling has also been made available for all Macmahon employees and their families."
Macmahon holds a seven year contract for quarrying operations at a cement manufacturing plant near Calabar.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
The company also provides mining services to clients throughout Australia, New Zealand, South East Asia, Mongolia and Africa.
Macmahon has been granted a trading halt for its shares amid the security incident, which will remain in place pending another announcement by the company.
Its shares last traded at 9.1 cents, giving the company a market value of $110 million.
