Tension in Uturu as gunmen kidnapped students of Abia State University

Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have reportedly kidnapped some students of Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu whose identities were yet-to-be ascertained.

It was however gathered that two out of the kidnapped students reportedly escaped from their abductors as others were still being held by the kidnappers.

It was not clear whether the students were the target of gunmen, information on Thursday however, has it that the students were among occupants of a mini bus heading to Uturu from Okigwe in Imo State.

Our correspondent gathered that the incident which has thrown the ABSU community into anguish occurred between 7-8pm Wednesday night.

The Commissioner of Information in the state, Mr. John Okiyi-Kalu who in a telephone confirmed the incident to our correspondent said the students were attacked by gunmen in Imo State and not Abia State as being speculated on social and by main stream media houses.

Okiyi-Kalu who stated that the Abia State Government is currently monitoring development on the incident said the two students were able to escape from their captors when they (students) were marched into a nearby forest alongside other travelers.

“When they ran into the armed gang who marched them into the nearby forest along with other yet to be identified travelers.

“Two of the students managed to escape from the hoodlums while others are still being held at a yet to be identified location.

“We are working with the government of Imo State and relevant security agencies in both states to ensure the rescue of the abducted students and others. 

“Members of the public and ABSU community are advised to remain calm as we will spare no resource in ensuring the safety of the victims.

“No criminal operating within our environment will be allowed to escape justice as we take the job of protecting lives and property of Abians and visitors to the State very seriously.”