Security forces in Adamawa State have rescued two kidnapped victims after a fierce exchange of gunfire with suspected kidnappers in Shelleng Local Government Area.

Sources confirmed to Zagazola Makama that the operation was launched in response to a distress call from Labaran Village in Wuroyanka District at about 3:15 a.m. on Tuesday.

According to the sources, gunmen suspected to be kidnappers stormed the village and abducted a 50-year-old man, Alhaji Babayo Kalchingi, and his 19-year-old son, Hammadu Alhaji Babayo.

The attackers also attempted to seize another of Babayo’s sons, 17-year-old Bello, but he resisted and was shot in the back.

“Upon receipt of the distress call, the Divisional Police Officer, Kiri Division, mobilised a team of operatives alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) to the scene,” the sources said.

The injured boy was taken to the General Hospital in Numan for treatment while security operatives went after the kidnappers.

During the pursuit, the team engaged the suspects in a gun battle, forcing them to flee with gunshot wounds and abandon the captives.

The rescued victims were later reunited with their family. Security agents recovered an empty shell of an AK-47 rifle from the scene. Authorities said efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.