Three members of a kidnap-for-ransom group from the southern Philippines have been shot dead by security forces in Merabung waters off Lahad Datu, last night.

According to the New Straits Times, the shootout occurred when the kidnappers tried to abduct a man at around 9.30pm, Thursday.

During the incident, security forces had managed to arrest two other suspects and rescued the victim.

One of the security personnel, however, was injured in the shootout.

Sabah police commissioner Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun also informed that a press conference will be held at the Semporna police headquarters, at 10.30am today.