The Rivers State Police Command has announced the rescue of 14 persons who were kidnapped while travelling in a commercial bus along the Ndele/Rumuji axis of the state.

Gunmen had abducted the passengers on Monday night and dragged them into the bush. Initial reports had indicated that 11 passengers were abducted.

But the police today put the figure at 14.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Nnamdi Omoni, the rescue comes after a major operation in the four communities – Ndele, Rumuji, Rumuekpe and Ebele – around the area.

The Police PRO said the command eventually rescued those abducted after combing the bushes and using tear gas in spots believed to house the kidnappers’ den.n the process, the kidnappers abandoned their victims.

In the process, he said, the kidnappers abandoned their victims.