The suspect was shot dead by Men of Okehi Local Government Professional Hunters around 5.23am on Tuesday, June 29.

It was gathered that the three-man kidnap gang came from a hideout around Abobo area, behind Itakpe, metres from the highway.

The hunters engaged the gang in a gun duel, killing one of them instantly. The other two who sustained injuries managed to escape.

The hunters eventually rescued the victims held captive in the area and reportedly combed the forest for fleeing kidnappers.

The corpse of the slain man and a gun recovered have been handed over to the DPO in charge of Okehi division, Mr Ovanja Yakubu, for further investigation.

The Chairman Of Okehi Local Government, Hon Abdulraheem Ohiare Ozovehe, who was present at the scene assured all Okehi citizens of his continued readiness to secure his domain and environs.

"My topmost priority as an Executive Chairman is to secure the lives and property of our Citizens," said Hon Ohiare.