All 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members kidnapped in Imo State have regained their freedom seven days after being abducted along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Umunoha.
The victims, who were travelling in two buses from Oyo State to their orientation camps in Abia State, were rescued following a joint security operation involving police, military, and state security operatives.
They are currently undergoing medical treatment at the Department of State Services (DSS) Hospital in Owerri.
NYSC Director-General, Brigadier-General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, visited the facility to assess the condition of the rescued graduates. He was accompanied by the Imo State Commissioner of Police, the State Director of the DSS, and the Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade.
Crackdown on kidnappers’ hideout
The abduction occurred on Thursday when armed men intercepted the buses conveying the graduates from Ibadan. The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦50m per victim—totalling ₦1bn—before later reducing the demand to ₦5m per person (₦100m).
Security forces located the kidnappers’ hideout using drone surveillance. However, initial tactical advances were hindered after operatives discovered the perimeter had been rigged with Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
Additional heavy equipment, including bulldozers and armored personnel carriers (APCs), was deployed to breach the compound and clear the explosives. While 10 victims were rescued earlier in the week, security forces successfully secured the release of the remaining captives in the final assault.
Authorities have not disclosed whether any suspects were arrested during the operation or if a ransom was paid.
State government commends security agencies
Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, praised the joint security forces for their patriotism and discreet handling of the rescue operation.
In a signed statement, Governor Uzodimma noted that government officials deliberately kept operational details confidential to protect the lives of the victims while the mission was underway.
He also commended the collaboration between the Oyo and Imo state governments, thanking the victims’ parents for their patience and resilience throughout the ordeal.
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