The Imo State Police Command has rescued 10 passengers abducted after gunmen attacked two commercial buses in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of the state.
The incident occurred around 6:30am on Thursday at Umunoha, popularly known as “No Man’s Land,” while the buses were travelling from Ibadan, Oyo State, to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and Bende, Abia State.
Some of the passengers were serving National Youth Service Corps members.
Police spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, said the exact number of people abducted was still being verified, while security operatives continued coordinated search-and-rescue operations for those yet to be found.
The two buses involved in the incident have also been recovered, while the 10 rescued victims are reportedly safe and receiving necessary attention.
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The Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, alongside other security commanders, visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment and directed ongoing operations.
The police said tactical teams and other security assets had been deployed in collaboration with sister security agencies to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend the suspected abductors.
The affected section of the expressway has since been reopened, with security personnel remaining in the area to protect commuters.
Authorities have also begun working with the NYSC Directorate to contact families of affected corps members and keep them updated on developments.
The police urged members of the public to remain calm and vigilant, while encouraging anyone with credible information about the incident to contact the nearest police station or the command’s emergency lines.
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