Two suspected kidnappers were neutralised and two kidnapped victims rescued during an operation in a forest in Imo State, police said.
According to a statement by police spokesperson Ani Iniedu, the operation followed an intelligence report that led police operatives and local vigilantes to the forest where the victims were being held.
The security team came under attack, resulting in a gun battle with the kidnappers.
“The hoodlums engaged the operatives in a gun duel, resulting in the neutralisation of two kidnappers while others escaped with gunshot injuries,” Iniedu said.
The two victims were rescued unharmed, the statement added.
A vigilante member involved in the operation sustained a gunshot injury and was later confirmed dead at a hospital.
The State Criminal Investigation Department in Owerri is investigating the incident.
