Police kill suspected kidnapper in Benue

The Police in Benue State have killed a suspected kidnapper during a gun battle for the rescue operation of Emmanuel Tor Yaji, the President-General of the Kunav Development Association (KUDA), in Vandeikya LGA of the state.

Yaji was abducted at a drinking joint in his hometown of Tsar Mbaduku, where he was relaxing with friends, according to a statement by SP Anene Sewuese Catherine, the public relations officer for Benue State Command.

“On 30/12/2024, at about 8:30pm information was received at the Vandeikya Police Division that Mr Emmanuel Tor Yaji was kidnapped while socialising in Tsar,” Anene stated.

She explained that swift action by police operatives led to a confrontation with the kidnappers on New Year’s Eve at about 1pm in Nambe Adikpo town, Kwande LGA of the state.

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Anene added that during the gunfight, one suspect was fatally injured and later confirmed dead by a medical doctor while another suspect was arrested, and two others escaped and have remained at large.

She listed items recovered from the deceased suspect to include an AK-47 rifle loaded with 12 rounds of live ammunition and three AK-47 magazines.

The police spokesperson confirmed that Yaji was rescued unhurt and had been reunited with his family and friends while investigations continue to apprehend the fleeing suspects.