By Anietie Akpan
A driver and 18 passengers of the Akwa Ibom State Transport Company (AKTC) bus have been kidnapped.
The driver and the passengers were kidnapped in a broad daylight by daring unknown gun men along the Azumini axis of Abia state.
The incident occurred last Wednesday as the Portharcourt bound bus travelled from its Uyo terminal through Iwukem in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom state before being intercepted by the gunmen.
An eyewitnesses account, said the attackers shot into the air sporadically, forcing the driver and passengers to disembark before being marched into the bush.
So far whereabouts of the victims remain unknown, sparking widespread concerns and fear.
The Police Public Relations Officer in Uyo ,Akwa Ibom state, ASP Timfon John, on Monday confirmed the incident during a chat with some newsmen, stating that “investigations are underway”.
The abduction has sent shockwaves through the community, with many calling for increased security measures especially along that axis to protect travellers and commuters.