A kidnap victim identified as Tama Jonathan has been killed during a gun duel between operatives of the Federal Capital Territory Police Command and criminal elements suspected to be kidnappers.
The FCT Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, said the operation led to the rescue of at least 58 abductees.
The victims, according to the statement, were held hostage at Udulu Forest in Gegu LGA of Kogi State, bordering Sardauna Forest in Nasarawa State, and other identified kidnappers’ dens in communities contiguous to the FCT.
She said the bandits and kidnappers had opened fire upon sighting the security team, coordinated by the police, thereby leading to a gun battle.
According to her, the bandits were overpowered and escaped with bullet injuries, leaving behind their victims.
The statement reads: “The rescue is part of efforts by the command’s leadership, in a sustained joint operation with other security agencies, vigilantes, and hunters from the various local communities, to combat violent crimes in the FCT, rescue victims, and bring perpetrators to book.
“The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Haruna Garba, has vowed that, while efforts are sustained to prevent any further threats to the safety and security of residents, the Command would also not relent in ensuring the rescue of any resident held hostage by criminals and would also bring the perpetrators to book.
“The CP called for the cooperation of residents, especially in being security conscious and giving credible information to the police.
“Meanwhile, one Tama Jonathan, unfortunately, sustained an injury during the rescue operation and died on the spot. His remains have subsequently been released to his family for burial. The other 58 rescued victims are being stabilised in the hospital and will be reunited with their families.”
