Police Launch Rescue Operation After Kidnapping of FUTO Student in Imo State

Suspected kidnappers have abducted a 17-year-old student of the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), identified as Mary Ezinwayi Uzoma, along the FUTO/Ihiagwa Road in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State.

The victim, a 100-level Microbiology student, was reportedly taken by armed individuals in the area, prompting immediate security response.

Confirming the incident, spokesperson of the Imo State Police Command, DSP Henry Okoye, said the command has launched a coordinated search and rescue operation in collaboration with local vigilante groups.

He explained that the Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, has directed the Anti-Kidnapping Unit to take over the investigation and ensure the victim’s safe return.

According to him, the directive is part of proactive efforts aimed at securing the swift rescue of the student and arresting those responsible for the abduction.

Security deployment has also been reinforced around the FUTO axis and surrounding communities, with increased patrols, surveillance operations, and visibility policing currently ongoing.

The police assured students, staff, and residents that efforts are being intensified to ensure their safety, stressing that the command remains committed to preventing crime and protecting lives and property.

Members of the public have also been urged to provide any useful information to the nearest police station or through the designated emergency contact line to assist ongoing investigations and rescue efforts.