Police in Benue have rescued a kidnapped female nursing student and killed a suspected gang leader following a shootout in Agbungun community, Logo Local Government Area.
The incident occurred on the evening of Nov. 21 when six armed men on two motorcycles attacked Agbungun and abducted the student, whose name has not been disclosed.
According to Zagazola Makama, the Divisional Police Officer of Ayilamo, a patrol team and tactical units were quickly mobilized to pursue the attackers toward their hideout in the nearby Biki community.
Officers engaged the gang in a fierce gunfight, resulting in one suspect being wounded and later dying in hospital. He was identified as Avalumun Nyamver, also known as Ornu, and described as the group’s leader.
During the gun battle, the kidnapped student managed to escape unharmed and was reunited with her family.
Police also arrested a woman, Mngusuun Torkende from Ucha in Ukum Local Government Area, who was found at the hideout. She reportedly told investigators that she had traveled to the area for a burial and had been asked by the deceased suspect to remain in the village.
Officers recovered several items from the scene, including a mobile phone, criminal charms, bags, a cutlass, two power banks, and four SIM cards.
Police confirmed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects, and the State Criminal Investigation Department has launched a full investigation.