The Imo State Police Command and the Nigerian Army’s 34 Artillery Brigade in Owerri have said joint efforts are continuing to rescue prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members abducted by gunmen in the state.
The victims were seized in Umunoha, Ogbaku, in Mbaitoli Local Government Area, after armed men reportedly attacked two commercial buses travelling from Ibadan to orientation camps in the South-East and South-South.
Police spokesperson DSP Henry Okoye said on Sunday that security operatives were conducting an operation to secure the victims’ release.
“We’re conducting the operation and gradually closing in. We will keep you posted,” Okoye said, according to Punch.
Major Hashimu Abdullahi, public relations officer of the 34 Artillery Brigade, said the incident was receiving attention and that security agencies were working together to achieve a positive outcome.
Suspected hideout identified
Imo State Commissioner of Police Audu Garba Bosso had earlier said operatives used intelligence and drone surveillance to trace the suspected kidnappers to a location in the bush.
However, he said the operation could not immediately advance to the precise location because intelligence indicated that explosives may have been planted around the suspected hideout.
The reported explosive threat has complicated the operation, requiring security personnel to assess the risks before attempting to reach the captives.
Victim count remains unclear
There have been differing reports about the number of prospective corps members abducted and the number still being held.
While several reports and relatives refer to 20 victims, the police and military update carried by Punch referred to 19 prospective corps members requiring rescue.
The discrepancy should be resolved through an official, updated account from the security agencies.
Authorities promise further updates
The police and military have said they will provide updates as significant developments emerge.
The incident has renewed concern over the security of inter-state travel, particularly for young Nigerians heading to NYSC orientation camps far from their home states.
For the families, the overriding concern remains the safe return of the abducted graduates. The success of the operation will depend on locating the victims, managing the reported explosive threat and apprehending those responsible.