The police command in Imo State says it has deployed tactical teams, alongside other security agencies, to rescue abducted corps members and other passengers and arrest the suspected abductors.

In a statement on Thursday, Okoye Henry, the command’s spokesman, said the incident occurred on Thursday at about 6:30 p.m. along the Owerri-Onitsha Road, near Umunoha.

“Two buses conveying NYSC corps members and other passengers from Ibadan to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and Bende, Abia State, respectively, were attacked by suspected armed men,” he said.

Mr Henry said that following a swift response by the police and other security agencies, both buses were recovered and 10 victims rescued at the scene.

He said the rescued victims were safe and receiving necessary attention.

“The exact number of persons abducted is being verified and will be made public once confirmed,” he noted.

He added that operatives were conducting coordinated search-and-rescue operations, supported by intelligence-led tracking of the suspects.

The commissioner of police in the state, alongside other security commanders, visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment and to provide operational direction, Mr Henry said.

“The affected section of the expressway has been reopened and traffic is flowing. Security personnel remain deployed to protect commuters,” he said.

He added that further updates would be issued as the situation develops.

Peoples Gazette had earlier reported that prospective National Youth Service Corps members and other passengers were abducted along the Imo-Abia Road on Thursday.