From Ibrahim Obansa, Lokoja
Three suspected kidnappers have been killed by the Nigerian troops operating under “Exercise Cat Race” in their attempt to rescue a victim in Okene, Kogi State.
An officer lost his life during the exchange of gunfire between the military and the bandits.
THE AUTHORITY gathered that the incident occurred at about 8am on Tuesday at checkpoint along the Okene-Ajaokuta Road when someone in the company of the military alerted them of the victima��s abduction and the demand for ransom by the kidnappers.
It was learnt that when the kidnappers saw the troops with the informant, they opened fire on them which led to the death of the young officer.
The military allegedly fought back, killing the three suspected kidnappers.
The victim, who was described as an oil mogul and Chairman and Chief Executive of Always Petroleum and Gas, Alhaji Otinau Momoh Jimoh, was shot on his arms.
He is receiving treatment in one of the private hospitals in Okene.
Momoh Jimoh was kidnapped 10 days ago in Okene at about 8pm.
During the exercise, one of the kidnappers was captured alive.
Sources claimed that the late officer, who got married a few months ago, died in the hospital.
Among the items recovered from the kidnappersa�� hideout included charms and ammunition while the body of the military officer has been deposited in the mortuary in Okene General Hospital.
When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the Command Army Record, Captain Weri Finikumor, said that the operation was ongoing, adding that he could not confirm anything on the incident.
Military officer, 3 kidnappers killed in Kogi shootout
