Imo Police Confirm Abduction of NYSC Members, Others on Highway
The Imo State Police Command has verified that some National Youth Service Corps members and other travellers were kidnapped along a key highway in the state. In a statement released to journalists in Owerri, the command's Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, said rescue efforts are in progress and the attackers are being pursued.
Okoye explained that two buses were travelling from Ibadan to Uyo in Akwa Ibom State and to Bende in Abia State when they were set upon by suspected armed men. The two buses were carrying NYSC corps members alongside other passengers.
Following a prompt intervention by the police and other security agencies, both vehicles were recovered and 10 victims were freed at the location, Okoye said. The rescued individuals are reported to be safe and are receiving the necessary care.
The police spokesperson noted that the command is still trying to determine the precise number of those taken during the incident. He said the figure will be disclosed to the public once it is confirmed.
Okoye stated that a coordinated search-and-rescue operation is under way, bolstered by intelligence-driven tracking intended to find the suspects and free the remaining victims. He added that the Commissioner of Police, Audu Bosso, together with other service commanders, went to the scene to evaluate the situation and issue operational instructions.
The police assured that the security operation will persist until every victim is rescued and those responsible are arrested. Okoye also said the command is collaborating with the NYSC Directorate to reach the families of the affected corps members and keep them updated on developments.
Additionally, the police revealed that the affected portion of the expressway has been reopened to traffic, with security personnel stationed along the road to safeguard commuters. The command called for calm and advised the public to stay alert, urging anyone with useful information to report to the nearest police station or call the command's emergency lines. Okoye said all information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
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