Two out of six armed men who kidnapped an old man, (name withheld) in Akwa Ibom state have died during a gun battle with police operatives in the State.
The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Timfon John, who disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday, explained that the command has intensified the hunt for four other fleeing suspected members of the kidnap gang.
ASP John noted that the abducted victim (name undisclosed) was reached at Afaha Nsit in Nsit Ibom local government area, where his abductors had abandoned him.
Her words, “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has rescued a kidnap victim (name withheld) who was kidnapped by about six armed men. On receipt of the report, the Command Tactical teams swiftly responded and went after the kidnappers.
“In an ensued 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, at about 2000hrs on the same day following a hot chase of the kidnappers, the abducted victim was abandoned at Afaha Nsit in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area 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.
“Meanwhile, 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 Akwa Ibom State for their support to the Police. He urged them to always report any suspicious acts or movement to the police and other security agencies.