BLANTYRE, MALAWI — Four suspected kidnappers have been shot dead during an exchange of fire with police in Mpemba, near Chadzunda in Blantyre, following an intelligence-led operation that resulted in the rescue of kidnapped British national Nasrat Osman.
According to a statement issued by the Malawi Police Service, the suspects were armed with an AK-47 rifle and a Girsan Regard MC pistol when they engaged police officers during the operation.
The police said the four suspects were shot and rushed to hospital but later succumbed to their injuries. Their identities have not yet been disclosed.
Osman, 47, was reportedly kidnapped by four unidentified men at Mount Pleasant last week, prompting a police operation to locate and rescue her.
During the operation, Deputy Inspector General of Police responsible for Operations, Noel Kayira, sustained gunshot injuries. He is currently receiving treatment at Mwaiwathu Private Hospital in Blantyre.
Osman was also admitted to the same hospital following her rescue. Police said she is receiving medical treatment and undergoing physical and mental health assessments.
The successful rescue operation, however, came at a cost, with the injury sustained by the senior police officer highlighting the risks faced by law-enforcement personnel during operations against armed criminals.
Police have confirmed that investigations into the incident are continuing and said further details will be released as they become available.
