22nd May, 2023
By Nicholas Dechi
The Benue State Police Command on Monday said one kidnapper has been shot dead during gun-battle leading to the rescue of a kidnapped medical doctor and nine others.
The Commissioner of Police (CP), Julius Okoro disclosed this while briefing newsmen on Monday in Makurdi.
The CP said that a medical doctor working with Federal Medical Center, Makurdi, kidnapped on May 13 at Judges Quarters, Makurdi, was rescued.
“During investigation, a team of Operation Zenda JTF trailed the kidnappers to their hideout at Gaya Village, Utange Council Ward in Kastina Ala LGA of the state.
“On sighting the Police, the kidnappers engaged them in a gun duel that claimed the life of one of them while three of the suspects were arrested and others escaped into a nearby bush with bullet wounds.
“10 kidnapped victims including the doctor were rescued unhurt.
“Items recovered from the kidnappers include, one locally fabricated AK47 rifle with 10 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, two single barrel rifles, one locally made barrette pistol loaded with three rounds of 9mm live ammunition and two military uniforms,” he said.
The CP also said that on Sunday while Police teams were on patrol along Makurdi-Lafia road, information was received that some gunmen had accosted a vehicle conveying passengers to Enugu at Daudu in Guma LGA.
He said that the Police swiftly moved to the scene and forced the suspects to abandon their victims and took to their heels.
“They also abandoned a bag containing military camouflage uniforms and wooden guns.
“The victims have been released to continue with their journey and investigation is ongoing to arrest the suspects who are at large.
“I have re-strategized and drawn a plan to rid the state of criminality.
“I assure you of my commitment to make sure that the good people of Benue sleep with their eyes closed,” Okoro said.