Tactical operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have neutralised two suspected kidnappers during a fierce gun battle with six armed hoodlums while trying to escape with their kidnapped victim to their den before commencing negotiation for ransom, LEADERSHIP learnt yesterday.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Timfon John, who confirmed this to journalists at the Command headquarters, Ikot Akpanabia, near Uyo, the state capital, said a kidnap victim (name withheld), was rescued, while four other members of the gang escaped, with police on their trail.
According to her, following the superior firepower of the police operatives, the kidnappers abandoned the kidnapped victim at the Afaha Nsit area of Nsit Ibom local government area, adding that the victim was immediately rescued and taken to a medical facility for attention.
She said: “On receipt of the report, the Command Tactical teams swiftly responded and went after the kidnappers. In an ensuing gun battle, two of the kidnappers were fatally injured. They were taken to a hospital where they were confirmed dead, while others escaped with the victim.
“However, on the same day following a hot chase of the kidnappers, the abducted victim was abandoned at Afaha Nsit in Nsit Ibom LGA, where he was rescued by the police and taken to the Police Clinic for medical attention.
“One tricycle, one Mitsubishi Hilux vehicle, mobile phones, expanded cartridges and other items suspected to be charms were recovered.
“The commissioner of police Akwa Ibom State Police Command, CP Waheed Ayilara, has reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment and dedication to making Akwa Ibom uncomfortable for criminals.
“The CP thanked the good people of state for their support to the police. He urged them to always report any suspicious acts or movements to the Police and other security agencies.”