The operatives of Kogi State Police Command, in partnership with local vigilance Group, have killed two kidnappers, rescued one victim and recovered one AK 49 Rifle with 14 Rounds of live ammunition.

However, the killing of the two kidnappers was revealed in a press statement signed on Tuesday, by the Police Public Relation Officer, CSP. William Ayah, in Lokoja. 

The statement read in part, “In compliance with the directives of the Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Police Command, CP. Onuoha Bethrand, to sustain the tempo on the ongoing onslaughts against criminal elements and to deny them safe haven in the state.

“The operatives of the Nigeria Police Force attached to Ife-Olukotun in an intelligence-led operation in collaboration with the local vigilantes rescued one kidnapped victim, neutralized two kidnappers and recovered one AK 49 rifle with 14 rounds of live ammunition.

“This was in response to a report that some hoodlums invaded a Camp of one Yahaya of Igbo-Ero in Ife-Olukotun and kidnapped him.”

It was also revealed that the hoodlums kidnapped another victim which they later released after robbing him of one ram.

“The divisional police officer promptly swung into action, mobilizing a team of operatives in collaboration with the local vigilantes following intelligence that stormed their hideout. On sighting the joint team, the hoodlums opened fire on them.

“During the gun duel that ensued, two suspected kidnappers were neutralized, the victim was rescued and one AK 49 rifle with 14 rounds of live ammunition were recovered. While other suspects escaped with bullet wounds. Effort is ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects, the statement said.

The commissioner of police while applauding the joint police and vigilantes’ team for the breakthrough reiterated his determination to sustain the ongoing onslaughts against criminal elements and to deny them safe haven to operate in the state.

The commissioner enjoined members of the public to continue to collaborate with the security forces to ensure adequate security of lives and property in the state.