The police command in Edo says it freed a hostage and killed three alleged kidnappers during a joint security operation in Igarra, Akoko-Edo council area.

A statement on Monday by the command’s spokesman, Eno Ikoedem, said the operation, conducted at about 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, followed intelligence gathering and technical support.

Ms Ikoedem said this led the security operatives to the Geo Works’ bushes and forest bordering Otuo, where the victim, identified as Michael Akano, was being held. According to her, the victim was reportedly abducted on Friday.

She said the operation involved police operatives from the Igarra Division, personnel of the Nigerian Army 195 Battalion, the State Security Service, local hunters, and members of the Edo Security Corps.

”Three suspected members of the kidnapping gang were neutralised during a gun duel, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

“Exhibits recovered from the scene include three locally fabricated single-barrel shotguns, eight live cartridges, five expended cartridges, two cutlasses and five mobile handsets of different brands.

“The bodies of the neutralised suspects have been deposited at the General Hospital mortuary, Igarra, for autopsy. The bush-combing operation is still ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects,” she said.

(NAN)