The police on Friday confirmed the killing of seven suspected kidnappers during a shoot-out in Kaani, Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ben Ugwuegbulam, told the News Agency of Nigeria that the police and the anti kidnap unit of the 2 brigade, stormed their alleged hideout in Port Harcourt.
Ugwuegbulam said the police was informed that the hoodlums kidnapped a Turkish national, Biram Karakus, who is a staff of Rivigo Construction Company in Port Harcourt.
He said the Turkish national had earlier been freed by the kidnappers before the operatives stormed their hideout.
“On arrival at the camp, the hoodlums opened fire on the team to enable them to escape.
“However, operatives returned fire and in the ensuing gun battle, six of the hoodlums were injured,” he said.
The police’s spokesman said the gang leader, identified simply as Bishop Nelly, and 10 others, including two ladies, sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to the hospital.
“Seven of the injured hoodlums, including the gang leader died on the way to hospital,” he explained.
Ugwuegbulam said the operatives recovered six AK-47 assault rifles, 44 rounds of live ammunition, 17 magazines and assorted charms.
He also said two bags used to deliver ransom and N98, 900 were recovered.
