ST CATHERINE, Jamaica— Police say they rescued a man who was abducted in St Catherine on Thursday.

Two people were arrested and a firearm seized during the rescue operation in Tawes Pen, Spanish Town in the parish, the police said.

Reports are that the operation began about 10:00 pm after a report was received that a man had been kidnapped and a ransom was being demanded.

During the course of the operation, the police reportedly encountered armed resistance which resulted in one of the suspects being fatally shot. He has not yet been identified.

The police say they subsequently rescued the kidnapped individual and arrested two men in connection with the crime. A .38 revolver containing five cartridges was seized at the scene.

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has been informed of the incident.

Area Commander for Police Area Five, Assistant Commissioner of Police Gary Griffiths has commended the swift action of the St Catherine North Police, saying the team prevented a potential tragedy and demonstrated the force’s commitment to public safety and its relentless efforts in combating crime.

The police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation. Persons can call Crime Stop at 311 or the Spanish Town Police at 876-984-2305.