Malawi Police say eight people were involved in the abduction of British national Nuzrat Osman, with two suspects killed during the operation that led to her rescue.
Inspector General of Police Richard Luhanga said the two suspects were among the kidnappers found at the house where Osman was being held, while six others remain at large.
Luhanga said police had not established any ransom demand from the kidnappers by the time Osman was rescued.
The police chief also confirmed that Deputy Inspector General Noel Kaira was shot in the stomach during the operation. Kaira was rushed to Mwaiwathu Private Hospital, where he is receiving treatment.
According to Luhanga, police acted on information provided by six informants, who will share a K30 million reward offered in connection with the rescue. He said authorities delayed releasing details about the suspects because the two men were critically injured after being shot.
The two suspects later died after being taken to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital. Police have identified them as 43-year-old Mozambican national Marcolino Munguambe and 44-year-old Limbani Anthony from Mangochi.
National Police spokesperson Gladys Chiwaula said the operation followed a report by Osman’s husband, Nazil Osman, that his wife had been abducted.
Chiwaula said police later received information that Osman was being held at Mingale Village near Mpemba, prompting officers to plan and launch the rescue operation.
Police say two rifles were recovered from the slain suspects as investigations continue to locate the six suspects who remain at large.
