By USMAN ALIYU

Operatives of the Police Command in Edo have neutralised two suspected kidnappers and recovered arms during a bush combing operation in Esan South-East Local Government Area of the state.

CSP Moses Yamu, the command’s spokesperson, said in a statement on Wednesday in Benin City, that the operation took place on September 30th, following credible intelligence.

According to him, operatives of the Amedokhian Tactical Division, led by SP Peter Ogah, acting in synergy with local hunters and vigilante groups, embarked on a raid along the railway track leading to Ubiaja.

“During the operation, the team encountered a gang of suspected kidnappers who opened fire on the operatives.

“In the ensuing gun duel, two of the suspects were neutralized, while others escaped with varying degrees of injuries,” Yamu said.

He said that one AK-47 rifle with breech number 4148, 33 rounds of live ammunition, and two mobile phones were recovered at the scene.

The neutralized suspects, he said, were taken to hospital where they were confirmed dead.

The police spokesperson further disclosed that operatives of the Tactical Division recovered an English-made double-barrelled shotgun with breech number 03273286 on the same day.

He said the gun was recovered alongside two live cartridges during another bush combing exercise around Idumogun community in Ukoni, also within Esan South East LGA.

He said Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Monday Agbonika, commended the gallantry of the operatives, hunters, and vigilante groups for their swift response and synergy in combating crime.

“The command remains resolute in its commitment to rid Edo State of criminal elements.

“We urge the public to support our community safety partnership initiative and informal policing efforts to ensure a safer state,” he quoted Agbonika as saying.

He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report emergencies via 08037646272 or 08077773721. (NAN)