Passengers on the Maiduguri-Kano highway have reportedly been abducted by suspected Boko Haram terrorists.

According to Obasanjonmews.com, the insurgents attacked on Monday at approximately 5:50 p.m. along the Damaturu highway, between Garin Kuturu and Mannanari hamlet near Auno.

According to reports, the rebels blocked the route before removing a number of passengers with force.

Numerous commuters and travellers were left trapped on both ends of the constantly busy road due to the incident.

They had to go back to Auno and Benishek, respectively.

Read Also: Boko Haram Attacks Commercial Bus, Executes 3 Passengers

“Some Boko Haram gunmen emerged to halt the approaching vehicles during an incident between Mannanari and Garin Kuturu, and some passengers were taken hostage.

According to a source, “We are unsure of the exact number as of right now, but there was undoubtedly an abduction on Monday night.”

Residents told the BBC that when the militants were operating between the villages of Garin Kuturu and Mannanari, several commercial drivers temporarily sought sanctuary in their community.

“It appears that they were searching for food when they emerged carrying three wheelbarrows. The number of those kidnapped is unknown, but before military reinforcements could arrive, a few commercial drivers returned and went back to Maiduguri, the source said.

Additionally, a passenger who wished to remain anonymous reported that other passengers had been stuck for hours.

He told Obasanjonews.com, “We were heading for Kano from Maiduguri when the driver got hint about the attack and took a diversion.”

“We don’t know when the military will clear the route, but that is what we have been waiting for. Here we are stuck.