Kidnappers abduct 17-year-old FUTO student, police begin search

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The Imo State Police Command has commenced a coordinated search and rescue operation following the abduction of a 17-year-old student of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Mary Ezinwayi Uzoma.

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The 100-level Microbiology student was reportedly kidnapped along the FUTO/Ihiagwa Road in Owerri West Local Government Area.

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The command said it swiftly mobilised to the scene in collaboration with local vigilantes, with adjoining bushes and surrounding areas subjected to intensive search operations.

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Police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, noting that the Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, had directed the Anti-Kidnapping Unit to take over the case.

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“The directives are part of proactive measures aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the victim and the swift arrest of the perpetrators,” Okoye said.

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He added that the command had intensified intelligence-led operations in collaboration with other security agencies.

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According to him, security deployment has also been reinforced across the FUTO axis and neighbouring communities.

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“The CP has reinforced security deployment across the FUTO axis and adjoining communities, with sustained patrols, surveillance, and visibility policing already ongoing,” he stated.

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Okoye assured students, school authorities, and residents of the command’s commitment to ensuring their safety.

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“The Imo State Police Command remains proactive and resolute in its mandate to prevent crime, protect lives, and property,” he said.

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He urged members of the public with useful information to report to the nearest police station or contact the command through its emergency line.

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“Members of the public with useful information are encouraged to report at the nearest police station or contact 0803 477 3600,” the statement added.

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