Police rescue 10 passengers and recover buses in Imo State

The Imo State Police have rescued 10 passengers who were kidnapped by gunmen. These gunmen attacked two commercial buses in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State.

The police also found the two buses involved in the attack and are working hard to rescue other passengers who are still missing.

The buses were traveling from Ibadan in Oyo State to Uyo in Akwa Ibom State and Bende in Abia State. They were attacked around 6:30 AM on Thursday at Umunoha, a place often called "No Man's Land" in Mbaitoli.

Some of the kidnapped passengers were National Youth Service Corps members. The Police Public Relations Officer in Imo, DSP Henry Okoye, confirmed what happened. He said the police are following leads to catch the suspected kidnappers.

Okoye mentioned that they are still trying to find out how many people were kidnapped. So far, they have rescued 10 victims. He assured that the rescued individuals are safe and getting the help they need.

The police spokesperson explained that they are carrying out coordinated search-and-rescue operations. They are using intelligence to track down and rescue the other victims and catch the suspects.

He said the Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, along with other service commanders, visited the scene to assess the situation and guide the operation.

Okoye added that the police are working with other security agencies. They have sent tactical teams and resources to rescue the corps members and other passengers.

He stated that the police will continue the operation until all the victims are safely back and the kidnappers are arrested. The command is also in touch with the NYSC Directorate to inform the families of the affected corps members about the situation.

The statement said, "Following a swift response by the police and other security agencies, both buses have been recovered and 10 victims were rescued at the scene. The rescued victims are in safe hands and are being attended to.

"The exact number of persons abducted is being verified and will be made public once confirmed.

"The Commissioner of Police, along with other Service Commanders, visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment and to give operational direction. He assured the public that the Command will sustain the operation until all victims are safely recovered and the suspects are brought to justice.

"The command is working with the NYSC Directorate to reach the families of the affected corps members, who will be kept informed as the situation develops.

"The affected section of the expressway has been reopened and traffic is flowing. Security personnel remain deployed to protect commuters.

"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 confidence."