A suspected kidnapper was on Tuesday dispatched to the Great Beyond, another arrested while two others fled as operatives of Benue State Police Command engaged them in a fierce battle leading to the rescue of kidnapped community leader, Emmanuel Tor Yaji.
Yaji, the leader of the Kunav United Development Association, was abducted around 10 pm on Monday while in a gathering of his friends at his village, Tsar Mbaduku, in Vandeikya Local Government Area.
Benue State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) SP. Anene Sewuese Catherine, while confirming the development in a statement said:
“Following the report of the kidnap of Mr Emmanuel Tor Yaji in Vandeikya Local Government Area, an intense rescue operation was launched. On 31/12/2024 at about 1300hrs, the police team in Kwande Local Government Area located the kidnappers at Nambe Adikpo town and engaged them in a gun duel.
“One of the suspects sustained gunshot injuries and was eventually confirmed dead by a doctor. One of the suspects was arrested while two others took to their heels. Further investigation to arrest suspects at large is ongoing.
“Items recovered from the deceased suspect include one (1) AK-47 rifle loaded with twelve (12) rounds of live ammunition and three (3) AK-47 magazines.
“The victim was rescued unhurt and has been reunited with friends and family.”
Eighteen-Eleven Media