Soldiers of the Nigetian Army prosecuting anti-kidnapping and banditry operations in Bauchi State, has killed 2 kidnappers and rescued 5 victims including 4 women and a child.

The rescue of the victims followed a heavy gunfight said to have lasted about an hour.

The development was confirmed by Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Usman, who said troops of 33 Brigade Nigerian Army on patrol at Mai Hari village, Alkaleri Local Government Area of the state had an encounter with armed bandits and kidnappers.

Usman said the victims have been reunited with their families, saying the troops had continued with patrols and raids of suspected kidnappers and armed bandits hideouts in Bauchi and Gombe States under the auspices of Operation Forest Kunama.