The Nigerian Army and the Police have rescued two kidnapped victims and arrested two suspected bandits during a clearance operation in a forest bordering Ekiti State, while a police inspector attached to the operation died after reportedly collapsing in the line of duty.
Sources disclosed that the operation followed a distress call from residents of Irele Community in Oye Local Government Area, who reported the presence of suspected armed bandits in a nearby forest.
According to the sources, troops of the 148 Battalion Forward Operating Base (FOB),
the Commander of the 33 Police Mobile Force (PMF) Squadron, Ado-Ekiti, deployed on special duty in the Oke Ako-Irele axis, immediately mobilised personnel alongside Oke Ako, to the area.
“The joint security team advanced into the surrounding forest and encountered about eight armed bandits carrying AK-47 rifles.
“A gun battle ensued, forcing the suspects to abandon their captives and flee into the forest with suspected gunshot wounds,” the source said.
The sources stated that two kidnapped victims, identified as Blessing Kingsley and Yofa Solomon, both from Ikoyi in Kogi State, were rescued unharmed during the operation.
Security operatives also arrested two suspected bandits identified as Abubakar and Abu Zaidi.
According to the sources, an AK-47 rifle dust cover, a cleaning rod and assorted charms were recovered from the suspects and the scene of the operation.
The arrested suspects and recovered exhibits have been handed over to the military for further investigation and necessary action.
Meanwhile, the operation recorded a tragic development as a police officer, Inspector Obanobi Ajayi, attached to the Police Mobile Force, reportedly collapsed during the mission.
The officer was immediately evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ikole-Ekiti, for medical attention but was pronounced dead on arrival by medical personnel.
Police authorities said the deceased officer’s service rifle was recovered intact.
The sources said that the joint troops were commended for the courage and professionalism of the joint security team, noting that the operation led to the successful rescue of the victims and disrupted the activities of criminal elements operating within the area.
Investigations into the incident and the activities of the arrested suspects are ongoing.
By: Zagazola Makama
