The Nigerian military, in collaboration with the Department of State Services, Nigeria Police, and other security agencies, has successfully rescued 20 prospective members of the National Youth Service Corps and a civilian who were abducted in Imo State. The abduction occurred on October 1, while the victims were traveling to their orientation camp.
According to the Nigeria Police, the victims were rescued on October 7 at around 4:28 pm at Amakohia Ubi Village in Imo State, following sustained and coordinated search-and-rescue operations by the security agencies. The police stated that the victims have been taken for medical examination and necessary medical attention as part of the post-rescue process.
The successful rescue was made possible by operational coordination and collaboration among the security agencies involved in the search-and-rescue effort. The Nigeria Police Force has expressed appreciation to members of the public for their cooperation and support, reiterating its commitment to protecting lives and property and responding promptly to threats to public safety.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, had deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Shehu Nadada, to Imo State to coordinate the search-and-rescue operation. This deployment followed appeals by the victims' parents to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and the police authorities for urgent intervention.
Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has applauded the security agencies for their quick intervention and for securing the release of the 20 corps members kidnapped along the Onitsha-Owerri Road. Uzodimma expressed satisfaction with the collaborative efforts of both the Oyo and Imo State governments towards the quick release of all 20 captives.
Uzodimma praised the security agencies for their discreet and collaborative manner in tackling the challenge, adding that the government was cautious about releasing too much information to the public. The governor also commended the parents for their patience during the ordeal.
The Nigeria Police Force has assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the suspects responsible for the abduction, as the police and other security agencies continue to intensify operations to bring those responsible to justice. Updates will be communicated as necessary, the force said.
Key points
- The Nigerian security agencies rescued 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps members and a civilian abducted in Imo State on October 1.
- The rescue was made possible by collaboration among the military, Department of State Services, Nigeria Police, and other security agencies.
- The Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has praised the security agencies for their quick intervention and collaborative efforts in securing the release of the abducted corps members.
