The Nigeria Police Force has escalated its efforts to rescue 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps members and other passengers abducted along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Umunoha, Imo State. Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has taken a proactive approach by deploying the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Shehu Umar Nadada, to take charge of the search-and-rescue mission. This development was confirmed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, on October 2, 2026.
DIG Nadada arrived in Imo State with two Commissioners of Police, CP Akpan Anifiok and CP Audu Garba Bosso, to assess the situation and the ongoing rescue measures. The team evaluated the operational strategies employed so far, including the deployment of personnel and security assets. Nadada issued fresh directives to improve coordination among the teams involved in the operation, which included tactical teams and additional operational assets deployed to identified locations.
The Nigeria Police Force has intensified intelligence-driven operations and strengthened collaboration with other security agencies to facilitate the rescue of the victims and the arrest of those behind the attack. According to the Force, the DIG assured Nigerians that the Nigeria Police Force would maintain the operation until the abducted persons are safely recovered. The public was urged to remain calm and vigilant, with anyone having useful information requested to contact the Police or the nearest security formation.
The abduction occurred on October 1, 2026, along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Umunoha, Imo State. The victims included 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps members and other passengers. The Police have assured the public that all information supplied to security authorities would be handled with strict confidentiality.
The deployment of DIG Nadada and the two Commissioners of Police to Imo State demonstrates the Nigeria Police Force's commitment to resolving the situation. The team has been working closely with other security commanders and members of the management team of the Imo State Police Command to ensure a coordinated approach to the rescue efforts.
The Nigeria Police Force has also assured the public that it would continue to provide updates on the operation as developments unfold. The Force remains dedicated to securing the safe release of the abducted victims and bringing those responsible to justice.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has reiterated the Nigeria Police Force's resolve to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted persons. The public has been urged to cooperate with the Police and provide any necessary information to aid the rescue operation.
Key points
- IGP Disu deploys DIG Nadada to lead rescue efforts for abducted NYSC members in Imo State.
- The Nigeria Police Force intensifies search-and-rescue mission with additional personnel and operational resources.
- The public is urged to remain calm and vigilant, providing any useful information to aid the rescue operation.
