JUST-IN: Kidnapped Plateau Monarch Rescued As Police Arrest 2 Suspects

The Plateau State Police Command has said its operatives have arrested the abductors of the paramount traditional ruler of Izere Nation in Jos East local government area of the State, HRH. Rev. Dr. Azi Wakili.

According to a statement issued in Jos by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Alfred Alabo, he said a distress call was received by Angware Police Divisional Headquarters of the Command that unknown gunmen forcefully entered the residence of Agwom Izere, HRH. Rev. Dr. Azi Wakili and kidnapped him.

The statement explained that as soon as the information was received, Police operatives led by the DPO of Angware, SP Timothy Bebissa, raced to scene to rescue the monarch but were engaged by the gunmen in a gun battle where one of the operatives sustained a gunshot injury and a yet-to-be identified civilian guard was shot dead by the kidnappers.

He added that in a relentless effort, the Police, other security agencies and volunteer groups strategised, swung into action and rescued the traditional ruler.

He added that two suspects in connection with the nefarious act were also arrested.

The PPRO further noted that the injured police officer had been taken to the hospital for treatment while the corpse of the civilian guard has been deposited at an hospital for autopsy, stressing that investigation was still in progress to arrest the other fleeing members of the gang.