Nigeria, Oct. 2 -- A suspected kidnapper, Maidawa, and several of his fighters have been eliminated in an encounter with joint security forces around Isanlu-Isin in the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State, security sources have said.

According to a government statement by the State Security Service (SSS), communications among the kidnappers confirmed Maidawa's death, which was relayed by another wanted suspect, Baccujo, to his associates along the Igboro-Idofin road and later in Marabar Maigora, Sabuwa LGA of Katsina State.

The clash occurred on September 30 as security forces intensified operations to clear out kidnappers' hideouts in Kwara's border communities with Kogi. Officials say the operations will be extended to other hot...