Troops Continue Rescue Efforts Of NYSC Members, In Two Buses Are Abducted Along Owerri-Onitsha Highway

By Ayodele Oni

Troops of the Nigerian Army, joined by other Security Agencies have continued the search for the victims and the  perpetrators of abduction of passengers in two 18-seater buses travelling from Lagos to the South-east on Thursday.

The two buses were intercepted along the Owerri-Onitsha Expressway in the early hours of Thursday as gunmen ambushed the travelers.

A viral video from the scene showed the two empty buses abandoned on the highway, with one bearing the inscription Uko Akwa Ibom Motors Nig. Ltd and fleet number Uko/133.

Already, troops have rescued 10 prospective National Youth Service Corps members that were travelling in the three buses. One of the buses escaped while occupants of the other two were taken into the bush, along with  the drivers.

The troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade were deployed after receiving reports that two commercial buses had been attacked by suspected kidnappers.

Preliminary information indicated that about 30 prospective corps members travelling in the buses were abducted during the incident.

The Army said some of the victims were subsequently rescued as security forces launched a coordinated operation to locate the attackers and free those still in captivity.

Personnel of the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Nigeria Police and Department of State Services are participating in the operation.

The rescued victims have been handed over to the DSS for debriefing and further assistance.