Two suspected bandits were shot dead during an attempt to collect ransom at a location at Katambi forest in the Kachia LGA of Kaduna State.

A nursing mother, a four-year-old child, and two others were rescued during the operation, which resulted to a fierce gun battle with security operatives.

A security source, who preferred anonymity, confirmed the development to our reporter via telephone on Sunday.

Follow us on WhatsApp | LinkedIn for the latest headlines

He said the operation was carried out at about 5pm on Saturday by troops who trailed the bandits to their hideout in Katambi forest during the collection of food items and ransom.

According to the source, the troops took positions upon approaching the location, adding that two bandits who had emerged to collect the supplies and ransom were immediately gunned down.

The operatives then engaged other gang members hidden in the bush, several of whom escaped with gunshot wounds.

"The bandits had actually intended to ambush the troops, but as God would have it, some of the troops stayed behind while others advanced. This led to an exchange of gunfire in which the two bandits coming for the food and ransom were killed," the source said.

He added that the nursing mother, the four-year-old child, and two other victims were successfully rescued and have since been reunited with their families.

A community leader from the area, who also requested anonymity, confirmed the killing of the two bandits and the rescue of the four victims.

While commending the security operatives for their bravery, he urged them to intensify efforts to rescue other victims--specifically those abducted from the Janjala community two weeks ago--who remain in captivity.

The spokesperson for the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Hassan Mansur, had yet to confirm the development as of the time of filing this report.