Security operatives attached to a joint taskforce have shot dead a suspect, described as a notorious criminal and gang leader, Ekeni Ore-Owaji Titus Sunday, popularly known as “Small Witch”, in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Small Witch and his gang members were responsible for the kidnappings and robberies that had plagued Andoni Local Government Area in recent times. Their activities included the abduction of three policemen, which led to the composition of a joint military and police operation.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Nnamdi Omoni, said the suspect was killed along with two of his lieutenants.

Some residents of Asarama had fled their homes on Friday morning after Small Witch and his gang members stormed the area in military camouflage and shot indiscriminately.

“The gang was responsible for heinous crimes in that area, including the kidnap of three policemen last year as well as the recent exchange of gunfire between the police and some hoodlums.

“They were also responsible for the killing of a headmistress along the Ogoni, Andoni Opobo/Nkoro Unity Road last month and also the killing of a police inspector of the Anti-Cultism Unit.

“Items recovered from them include five magazines, one AK47 containing about 120 live ammunition and a wooden gun among others,” Omoni said.

•Text (excluding headline): New Telegraph.