Operatives of the Kwara State Police Command have killed a suspected kidnapper and wounded two others in a gun duel. Spokesperson for the command, Ejire-Adeyemi Adetoun, who confirmed the development, said two of the kidnappers, Saidu Soliu and Soliu Abass, sustained serious injuries.
She said: “On the night of February 24, at about 12:30 a.m., a gang of suspected kidnappers carried out an attack on the camp of Alhaji Taofiq Fulani, in Alo Village, Ifelodun Local Council. During the attack, three persons were abducted and taken to an unknown destination.”
According to her, “swift response by police operatives and vigilantes resulted in a coordinated search operation in the surrounding bush. As a result, one Babangida Soliu escaped from the kidnappers while two victims: Halimat Umaru and Husseinat Isiaka, both 20 years old, were successfully rescued unharmed and have since been reunited with their families.”
Adetoun explained that the rescue team later engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel. “One of the perpetrators, whose identity is yet to be confirmed, was neutralised. Additionally, two suspects were promptly taken to the hospital for medical treatment,” she said.
She noted that five suspects were arrested in connection with the incident. They are: Ibrahim Muazu, 30; Asimu Salisu, 25; Aminu Alaka, 25; Aminu Temino, 20; and Zakariyau Suleiman, 20.
The spokesperson disclosed that two fabricated locally made guns, 12 7.62mm AK47 live ammunition, eight expended 7.62mm AK47 ammunition, one empty magazine, one cutlass and several plugs were recovered from the bandits.
“The case is currently under investigation and the Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, Victor Olaiya, assures the public that every effort is being made to ensure the perpetrators face the full wrath of the law,” she added.
