The police command in Ondo state says two alleged kidnappers were killed during a gun duel with operatives along the Akure–Owo Expressway in Ilu-Abo, Akure North council area.

Abayomi Jimoh, the command’s spokesperson, in a statement on Wednesday, said this was another significant breakthrough in its sustained effort against kidnapping and other violent crimes.

He said the gunfight occurred early Wednesday, around 3:30 a.m., when a patrol team from the Federal Highway Patrol Unit, Ilu-Abo, responded to a distress call about armed men at Olaiya Block Industry.

Mr Jimoh, who said the block industry was located beside Ilu-Abo High School along the Akure-Owo Expressway, disclosed that preliminary reports revealed about seven masked armed men invaded the premises and demanded to see the owner.

“Acting swiftly on credible intelligence, the police patrol team mobilised to the scene, where the suspects engaged operatives in a fierce exchange of gunfire. During the encounter, two of the suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while the remaining members of the gang escaped into the surrounding bush with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.

“Meanwhile, one locally fabricated pistol, live cartridges, four mobile phones, several face masks, as well as two ATM cards believed to belong to the criminal syndicate or their victims, were recovered.

“The bodies of the suspects have been deposited at the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, for preservation and other necessary procedures. The case has been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the State Criminal Investigation Department for discreet and comprehensive investigation,” the command spokesperson said.

According to him, the command has commenced efforts to track and apprehend the fleeing gang members, who are believed to have sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter.

Mr Jimoh, therefore, urged residents, particularly healthcare providers and the public, to promptly report any individual presenting suspicious gunshot injuries or exhibiting suspicious movements to the nearest police station.

(NAN)