Security operatives have launched a coordinated rescue operation following the abduction of 15 travellers along the busy Calabar-Itu highway in Cross River State.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, April 19, 2026, has raised concerns over rising insecurity on the route, a major link between Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.
Confirming the development, the Cross River State Police Command spokesperson, SP Irene Ugbo, said “The victims were forcefully taken by suspected armed kidnappers who ambushed their vehicles at a lonely stretch of the highway.
“Our operatives, in collaboration with other security agencies, have commenced a full-scale rescue operation to ensure the safe return of the victims.”
She assured residents that tactical teams had been deployed to strategic locations, while investigation is ongoing to track down the perpetrators.
An eyewitness said the attackers blocked the road and opened fire sporadically, causing panic before whisking away the victims into a nearby forest.
The Calabar Itu highway has long been identified as a hotspot for criminal activities, with motorists frequently calling on authorities to improve security presence along the corridor.
Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Gyogon Grimah, has urged residents to remain calm and support ongoing efforts by providing credible information that could aid the rescue mission.
Speaking on the incident, the commissioner said, “We are committed to ensuring that those behind this act are brought to justice. We appeal to the public to cooperate with security agencies.”
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