A civilian guard involved in the rescue operation of abducted traditional ruler of the ‘Agwom Izere’, Rev. Isaac Wikili on Friday has lost his life in gun battle with kidnappers.

Wikili, according to reports, was abducted in his home at Angware area of Jos East Local government of the State by unknown gunmen.

DSP Alfred Alabo, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Plateau disclosed this in a statement on Friday.

Alabo revealed that two suspects arrested in connection with the incident, are assisting the police to apprehend other members of the criminal gang.

According to him, a civilian guard dies while one of the police officers involved in the successful rescue operation of the traditional ruler, was injured.

Part of the statement which was seen by the News agency of Nigeria (NAN) read, “This morning at about 1 a.m., we received a distressed call that gunmen forcefully entered the residence of Agwom Izare, Rev Isaac Wakili and kidnapped the paramount ruler.

“Police operatives led by the DPO of Angware Division, SP Timothy Bebissa, immediately mobilised to the scene to rescue traditional ruler but were engaged by the gunmen in a gun battle.

“One of our operatives sustained a gunshot injury and a civilian guard was also killed.

“In a relentless effort, the Police, other security agencies and community guards strategised, swung into action and rescued the traditional ruler unhurt.

“Two suspects in connection with the nefarious act have been arrested and currently under investigation,” he said.

Mr Alabo said that the injured police officer was receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital, while the remains of the deceased had been deposited at a
hospital for autopsy.

TheNewspad reported that sympathizers had besieged the palace of the traditional ruler after he was whisked away by gunmen.