Three suspects have been killed while two others were injured as police and suspected kidnappers engaged in a gun duel in Kwara State.

One AK-47 rifle and charms were also recovered during the confrontation.

The incident occurred during the rescue of one Sule Saidu on Monday, who was kidnapped over the weekend, it was gathered.

Confirming the incident, a police spokeswoman in the state, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, said five armed men kidnapped the victim.

She said following the report of the incident, a joint security team, including police detectives, hunters and vigilantes, launched a rescue operation.

?The gang was intercepted along the Babanla/Oreke axis, where they engaged operatives in a shootout.

?One abductor was neutralised, two were arrested ? Ibrahim Shehu, 40, and Mohammad Lawal, 25 ? while the remaining two escaped with gunshot wounds.

?One AK-47 rifle and charms were recovered. The injured suspects who were later apprehended succumbed to their injuries en route to the hospital,? she added.

She said the command hailed the bravery and swift response of its officers and dedication of local hunters and vigilante groups ?who played a crucial role in the operation?. (Text, excluding headline: Daily Trust)