The Police Command in Delta says it has neutralised three kidnap suspects in the state.

Spokesman of the command, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this to newsmen in Warri on Friday.

Edafe said that the deceased hoodlums were neutralised on Tuesday by operatives of the CP – Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) during a gun duel.

He said that the CP-SAT, led by its commander, ASP Robinson Julius, was on a surveillance patrol on the Ughelli–Patani Road when they engaged the hoodlums.

“The CP-SAT team were conducting a covert surveillance patrol on the Ughelli – Patani Road.

“The police team flagged down an approaching shuttle bus at Ewhereni Junction.

“Upon sighting the operatives, the occupants of the vehicle opened fire in a bid to escape, leading to an intense exchange of gun duel,” he said.

The command’s spokesman said that three of the suspects sustained severe gunshot injuries while others escaped into the bush.

Edafe said that the injured suspects were taken to the hospital, where they later died while receiving treatment.

He said that one AK-47 rifle loaded with 18 rounds of live ammunition was recovered from them.