The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has taken a significant step in the rescue of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and other passengers abducted along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Imo State. On October 3, 2026, the IGP deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Shehu Nadada, to oversee the search-and-rescue operation. The abduction occurred on Thursday, October 1, 2026, around the Umunoha area of Imo State.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, DIG Nadada arrived in Imo State with two Commissioners of Police to assess the situation at the scene and ongoing efforts to locate and rescue the victims. The DIG reviewed operational strategies, deployment of personnel, and available operational assets before issuing additional directives aimed at strengthening the coordinated response. This move is expected to enhance the rescue operation.
The assessment was carried out alongside key officials, including the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso; Commissioner of Police, Federal Operations, CP Akpan Anifiok; and the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Police Mobile Force. Other service commanders and members of the management team of the Imo State Police Command were also present. This collaborative approach aims to ensure a successful rescue operation.
The police have intensified the search operation, deploying additional tactical teams and operational resources to identified locations. The operation is being reinforced through intelligence-led efforts to track the abductors, alongside coordinated operations with other security agencies. This multi-faceted approach is expected to yield results in the rescue of the abducted persons.
DIG Nadada assured members of the public that the police would continue working to secure the safe release of those abducted. He emphasized the Nigeria Police Force's commitment to securing the safe rescue of the 20 abducted persons and sustaining the operation until the mission is successfully concluded. The police are working tirelessly to ensure the safe return of the victims.
The DIG appealed to members of the public and the media to remain calm and vigilant, while urging anyone with credible information that could assist the rescue operation to report to the police or the nearest security formation. He assured that all information received would be treated with strict confidentiality. The public's cooperation is crucial in the success of the rescue operation.
The police have promised to provide further information on the rescue operation as developments unfold. The deployment of DIG Nadada and the intensification of the search operation demonstrate the authorities' commitment to resolving the situation. The safe return of the abducted persons remains the top priority.
Key points
- The IGP deployed DIG Shehu Nadada to oversee the search-and-rescue operation for 20 abducted prospective NYSC members in Imo State.
- The police have intensified the search operation, deploying additional tactical teams and operational resources to identified locations.
- The Nigeria Police Force is committed to securing the safe rescue of the abducted persons and will sustain the operation until the mission is successfully concluded.
