Police operatives have killed three suspected kidnappers in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State and rescued a kidnap victim.
The operation followed a distress call received by Vandiekya Police Divisional Headquarters concerning the kidnap of one Tor Gajir by gunmen in the area.
Disclosing this in a statement on Thursday, Force spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, said the rescue efforts happened on December 31, 2024.
“Upon receipt of this information, investigation was swiftly escalated, and the police operatives followed the trail to one Desmond Ahar. The suspect was accosted, and subsequent interrogation revealed the suspect was part of the kidnappers,” he said.
“The suspect, Desmond Ahar, then led the operatives to where the victim was being kept at Adikpo, Benue State.
“Upon arrival at the kidnappers’ den, the kidnappers spotted the police operatives and immediately engaged them in a gun duel. In the ensuing confrontation, officers were able to neutralize three of the suspects, while others fled with bullet wounds.”
The Force spokesman noted that the victim was rescued unhurt and immediately given medical attention to assess any physical or psychological impact.
He stated that the success of the operation also led to the recovery of two AK-47 and six loaded magazines, with several live ammunition, adding that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing member of the gang and recover other arms.
Similarly, operatives of the Nasarawa State Police Command located an abandoned sienna vehicle on the 28th of December 2024, along Keffi-Kaduna Highway, Angwan Wayo Village, suspected to have been attacked.
Adejobi said the operatives “followed the trail and located two hostages who had been captured by kidnappers. The victims were rescued unhurt, and efforts are still ongoing to arrest the fleeing kidnappers.”
On his part, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the operatives for the successes recorded specifically in the country.
He charged them to sustain the tempo to attain excellence in internal security and safety in Nigeria, saying the incidents highlight the bravery and dedication of police officers to keep communities safe.
The IGP urged members of the community to remain vigilant and volunteer to play their role towards ensuring public safety and national security.