TheTaraba  State Police Command has explained how five suspected kidnappers were killed during gun exchange with its officers in Garba-Chede, Gassol Local Government Area of the state.

ASP David Misal, spokesperson for the Command, told journalists on Saturday in Jalingo that the suspects were shot dead by the police in an exchange of gunfire following a failed attempt to kidnap one Alhaji Yakubu Atiku, a resident of the area.

“The operatives attached to Bali Division on March 30 at 2300 hrs engaged a group of armed men suspected to be kidnappers and armed robbers.

“The hoodlums on the same date invaded the residence of one Alhaji Yakubu Atiku of Garba-Chede in an attempt to kidnap him.

“The report was received with swift reaction from our operatives which led to an exchange of fire from both sides.

“With the superior fire power of our gallant officers, five members of the gang were shot dead while others escaped with bullet wounds,” he said.

The spokesman said one AK47 rifle, one pump action, two single barrel guns, 16 cartridges, three expended 7.62mm ammunition, two expended cartridges and assorted charms were recovered from the suspects.