A suspected kidnapper has been killed and one victim rescued during a gun battle between security operatives and criminals in Anambra State.
Three other suspected kidnappers were said to have fled with gunshot injuries.
The incident happened at Umuota village in Obosi, Idemili South local government area between 7:30-8pm on Saturday night.
The Nation gathered that some security operatives were equally wounded during the gun battle.
Items recovered from the hoodlums included one double barrelled pistol, an expended and two live cartridges.
Confirming the incident, the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Ikenga Tochukwu, said the Commissioner, Aderemi Adoye, had given marching orders to hunt down the remaining suspects.
He said: “Men of Anambra State Police Command have rescued a kidnap victim, one Abuchi (surname withheld) from Orumba South LGA of the state.
“Police operatives while on Anti-Crime Patrol in Obosi at about 7:30pm on 9th September, 2023, were stopped by residents who informed them about a kidnap incident.
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“The public spirited citizens pointed the direction the kidnappers went after seizing their victim.
“Police then trailed the kidnappers to an uncompleted building surrounded by bush in Umuota Village, Obosi where a gunfire with the kidnappers ensued.
“One of the hoodlums was shot and arrested while others escaped, some with bullet wounds.
“One double barrel pistol, two live and one expended cartridge were recovered from the gang.
“The arrested suspect gave his name as Nwasu Ikenna from Obosi. He identified those that escaped as Ebuka a.k.a Big; Chinedu Emmanuel and Chukwu Ojoto.
“The hoodlum who identified Ebuka as leader of the gang gave up the ghost on the way to the hospital for treatment,” Ikenga said.
He said Adeoye had assured the people of Obosi, Anambra State citizens and residents that the command would not relent in its onslaught against crime until it was brought to the barest minimum.