Members of the National Youth Service Corps were among passengers abducted when gunmen attacked two buses along the Owerri-Onitsha expressway in Imo State on Thursday morning, the state police command has confirmed.
The incident occurred around 6:30am near Umunoha, causing tension along the busy highway as the attackers reportedly forced passengers into the bush.
Imo State Police spokesperson, Okoye Henry, said 10 victims had been rescued following a joint response by the police and other security agencies.
He, however, said the total number of people abducted was still being established and would be announced after verification.
“The incident occurred at about 0630hrs on 1st October, 2026, along the Owerri-Onitsha Road, by 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,” the statement reads.
“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.”
Reports said the two 18-seater buses were carrying passengers travelling to Akwa Ibom and Abia states when the gunmen intercepted them.
A viral video circulated on X showed the buses bearing the Abia State Government logo, while reports indicated that passengers were robbed before some were taken into the bush.
Police operatives and other security agencies have continued search and rescue efforts aimed at locating the remaining victims and apprehending those responsible for the attack.
Okoye said the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, alongside other security commanders, visited the scene to assess the situation and provide operational directives.
“He assured the public that the Command will sustain the operation until all victims are safely recovered and the suspects are brought to justice,” Okoye said.
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The police command is also working with the NYSC directorate to contact the families of corps members affected by the incident and provide them with updates as the operation continues.
According to the police, the affected portion of the expressway has since been reopened, with traffic movement restored. Security personnel have also been deployed to the area to protect motorists and other commuters.
The command appealed to residents and road users to remain calm and vigilant, while urging anyone with useful information about the attackers or the abducted victims to report to the nearest police station or contact the command’s emergency lines.
“All information will be treated in confidence,” Okoye added.