Two suspected kidnappers were killed while two kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed during a gun battle between security operatives and kidnappers in a forest in Imo State. The operation followed an intelligence report indicating that the victims were being held in the area.

According to the Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, police operatives and local vigilantes mobilised to the forest after receiving the intelligence. The security team came under attack from the kidnappers, leading to an exchange of gunfire in which two suspects were neutralised.

Iniedu said other members of the kidnapping group escaped with gunshot injuries. He added that the two victims were successfully rescued without injuries, while one vigilante who participated in the operation sustained a gunshot wound and was later confirmed dead at a hospital.

The matter has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Owerri for further investigation. Police are expected to pursue leads from the operation as efforts continue to track the fleeing suspects and dismantle the criminal network.