Operatives of the Benue State Police Command have killed three suspected kidnappers and rescued two abducted individuals.
The rescue took place early on May 29 in the Ukum Local Government Area of the state, where the suspects had reportedly demanded a ransom of N23 million for their captives.
Superintendent of Police Catherine Anene, the State Police Public Relations Officer, disclosed that a team from Operation Zenda, a joint task force, stormed the kidnappers’ hideout around 6:00 am on Wednesday.
According to Anene, the operation followed the kidnapping of two victims from their homes approximately a week prior.
Anene stated, “On 29/5/2024 at about 0600hrs, officers of the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force stormed the kidnappers’ hideout.
“On sighting the police, the kidnappers, led by the gang leader Tersue Dada, aka ‘Causer’, engaged the team in a gun duel but were overpowered by the superior firepower of the police.
“Consequently, three suspects sustained gunshot injuries and were eventually confirmed dead at the hospital while one of the suspects, Terver Tavershima of Tinenune, Ukum LGA, was arrested.”
She further stated that the police recovered one AK-47 rifle, a dane gun, assorted mobile phones, a camouflage uniform, and a motorcycle from the hideout.
The police spokesperson said that the rescued victims, who were unharmed, revealed that they had been abducted from their homes and held for a ransom of N23 million.
She added that the Police Command was committed to eradicating banditry in the Sankara axis, ensuring the safe return of displaced residents to their ancestral homes.
Anene added that the Commissioner of Police, Hassan Yabanet, urged the community to cooperate with law enforcement officers to enhance security efforts in the region.