A rescue operation in Okuta, Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, has ended in tragedy with the deaths of an abducted victim, a vigilante officer and one suspected kidnapper.

The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday around 10 pm when the gunmen attacked the home of a local businessman, Alhaji Dauda Ismaila.

Alhaji Dauda was said to be a prominent businessman and farmer in Okuta, it was gathered.

Witnesses said the attackers fired several shots to scare residents before abducting their target.

Following the incident, local vigilantes were said to have swiftly mobilised and chased the attackers into the forest, which led to a gun battle that led to the death of the victims.

When contacted on Tuesday, Muhammed Baba Saliu, who represents Okuta constituency in Baruten in the state assembly, declined to speak on the matter. He ended the call and ignored further attempts to reach him.

The police spokesperson in the state, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, simply asked for the location of the incident and was yet to give any comment hours later.

However, the Seriki Fulani of Baruten, Ardo Muhammed Abdullahi, confirmed the deaths to Daily Trust.

He said the operation was by the combined team of the military and local vigilantes and promised to share further updates.

“The victim, a vigilante member and one of the kidnappers died during the rescue operation, which was supported by the military.

“The operatives are still inside the forest looking for them but we have heard nothing yet. I will inform you as soon as there is an update, hopefully a positive one,” he added.