Gun duel forces kidnappers to abandon victims including emir’s son

Some kidnappers, during an exchange of gunfire with troops, have been forced to abandon their victims, a military report has said.

The four rescued victims include Isma’il Umar, 25, who is said to be the son of the emir of Pupule in Taraba State. Others are Genesis Samuel, 24; Benard Denis, 28; and Esther Titus, 35.

Oni Olubodunde, a military spokesperson, said that the troops encountered the bandits on the Gampu Hills, in Yorro LGA of the state.

“Troops came in contact with bandits in the Gampu Hills and Ban Yorro area and exerted superior firepower which made the bandits flee the location leaving behind their abducted victims.

“The operation is still ongoing to ensure that other kidnapped victims who fled the area during the exchange of fire are found and reunited with their loved ones,” he said.

The military urged members of the public to volunteer “credible and timely information on suspicious movements to aid in improving security within the state.”