The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Rivers State Command, yesterday, saidit recovered 43 ammunitionsafter a gun duel with a kidnap syndicate, operating at Okuru – Ama waterside.

The Commandant, Michael Besong Ogar, disclosed this, while speaking withnewsmen at the Command Headquarters in Port Harcourt.

He said the Anti-vandal Squad engaged thesuspected kidnappers in a gun duel that lasted for about 25 minutes, adding that the suspects took to theeir heels when they discovered NSCDC operatives had superior firing power.

Ogar, in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, Olufemi Ayodele, said its operatives were able to recover six AK Rifle magazines, three Tavor gun magazines, 43 Tavor K2 Ammunitions, one Breech block, Some charms with animal horns, a wrist watch and an empty bag.

According to him, “following a sustained Intelligence on the activities of a kidnap syndicate hideout at an uncompleted building located in Okuru-Ama waterside, our men swung into action and engaged the suspects in a duel gun battle for 25minutes.

“Our men will continue to patrol the area as we enjoine the public not to relent in giving the command credible information that would lead to their arrest; you can be rest assured that the informants’ identity would be protected,” he added.

Ogar also noted that in another development, suspects were arrested for illegal dealings in petroleum products, attempted vandalism of the Nigerian Agip Oil Company Pipelines, conspiracy, advance fee fraud, illegal possession of ammunition, obtaining by false pretence and other criminal offences.

The suspects are: Chibuike David, Stephen Williams, Mekalachi Okpara, James Grateman, Rachael James, Godwin Chineletam, Cameroun Eke, George Kingsley, Harrisoa Igbo, Azubuike David, Unity Onue, Bestman Philip, Progress Goodnews, Chigozie Sunday, Godbless Morris, Izuma Ezekiel, Henry Jonah, Promise Okpara, Chibuike Ezechukwu and others. (The Guardian)