…launch coordinated search-and-rescue operation, intelligence-led tracking
. 10 victims rescued at scene, two buses recovered
Police in Imo have confirmed the abduction of some National Youth Service Corps members and other passengers travelling along a major highway in the state, saying efforts are underway to rescue the victims and arrest the attackers.
State Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists in Owerri on Thursday.
The statement said two buses conveying NYSC corps members and other passengers from Ibadan to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and Bende in Abia State, respectively, came under attack by suspected armed men.
The statement said the police and other security agencies’ response led to the recovery of the two buses and the rescue of 10 victims at the scene.
It partly read, “Two buses, conveying NYSC corps members and other passengers from Ibadan to Uyo, and Bende in Abia, respectively, were attacked by suspected armed men.”
“Following a swift response by the Police and other security agencies, both buses have been recovered and 10 victims were rescued at the scene.”
Police said the rescued victims were safe and receiving necessary attention, while the command was still working to establish the exact number of people abducted during the attack.
“The exact number of persons abducted is being verified and will be made public once confirmed,” the statement added.
The statement added that operatives were conducting a coordinated search-and-rescue operation, supported by intelligence-led tracking aimed at locating the suspects and rescuing the remaining victims.
It disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Audu Bosso, alongside other service commanders, had visited the scene to assess the situation and provide operational directives.
Police assured that the security operation would continue until all the victims were safely rescued and the perpetrators apprehended.
It also said the command was working with the NYSC Directorate to establish contact with the families of affected corps members and keep them informed of developments.
The police also disclosed that the affected section of the expressway had been reopened to traffic, with security personnel deployed along the road to protect commuters.
The police added, “The command appeals for calm and urges the public to remain vigilant. Anyone with credible information should report to the nearest police station or contact the command’s emergency lines.
“All information will be treated in utmost confidentiality.”
