A 17-year-old female student of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Miss Mary Uzoma, has been abducted by suspected herdsmen along the FUTO–Ihiagwa Road.
According to Vanguard, the incident has heightened anxiety among off-campus students of the institution, who are now expressing concerns over their safety.
Confirming the development in a press statement, the Public Relations Officer of the Imo State Police Command, Henry Okoye, said the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Bosso, has ordered an immediate search operation to rescue the victim.
He stated, “Imo State Police Command has since commenced coordinated search and rescue operations, following the reported abduction of a 17-year-old student of the Federal University of Technology Owerri, FUTO, Miss Mary Ezinwayi Uzoma, allegedly kidnapped along the FUTO/Ihiagwa Road in Owerri West Local Government Area.
“Upon receipt of the report, operatives of the Command, in synergy with local vigilantes, were promptly mobilized to the scene, where adjoining bushes and surrounding areas were immediately subjected to intensive search operations, as part of ongoing efforts to locate the victim.
“The CP has directed the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Owerri, to take over the case and sustain intelligence-led operations, in synergy with other security agencies.
“These proactive measures are aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the victim and the swift arrest of the perpetrators.
“In addition, the CP has reinforced security deployment across the FUTO axis and adjoining communities, with sustained patrols, surveillance, and visibility policing already ongoing.
“He assures students, student communities, school authorities, and residents of Imo State, of the Command’s unwavering commitment to their safety, and urges them to remain calm, vigilant, and continue their lawful activities.
“The Imo State Police Command remains proactive and resolute in its mandate to prevent crime, protect lives and property.”
Okoye also called on members of the public to assist ongoing investigations by reporting any useful information to the nearest police station.
