The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has deployed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, Shehu Nadada, to Imo State to coordinate efforts to rescue 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and other passengers reportedly abducted along the Owerri-Onitsha Road.
The victims were reportedly taken by suspected kidnappers on Thursday, October 1, 2026, around the Umunoha axis of Imo State.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Friday.
DIG Arrives in Imo to Coordinate Rescue Operation
According to the police, Nadada arrived in Imo State alongside two Commissioners of Police and immediately assessed the situation at the location of the incident.
He also reviewed the ongoing efforts by security personnel to locate the abducted passengers and secure their safe release.
The DIG reportedly examined the operational plans, deployment of personnel and available equipment being used in the search operation.
Following the assessment, he issued additional directives aimed at strengthening coordination among the security teams involved in the operation.
The review was conducted with the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso; the Commissioner of Police in charge of Federal Operations, CP Akpan Anifiok; the Commissioner of Police responsible for the Police Mobile Force, other security commanders and members of the Imo State Police Command’s management team.
Police Intensify Search for Abducted Passengers
The police said additional tactical teams and operational resources have been deployed to locations identified as relevant to the search.
According to the Force, intelligence-led operations are being used to track those responsible for the abduction.
The operation is also being conducted in cooperation with other security agencies in an effort to locate the victims and bring them to safety.
Nadada assured the public that security agencies would continue working until the abducted persons are rescued.
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to securing the safe rescue of the 20 abducted persons and will sustain the operation until the mission is successfully concluded,” Iniedu quoted the DIG as saying.
Police Appeal for Useful Information
The police urged members of the public to remain calm and vigilant while the search continues.
Authorities also appealed to anyone with credible information that could assist investigators and rescue teams to contact the police or the nearest security formation.
The Force said information provided by members of the public would be handled confidentially.
The police added that further updates would be released as the rescue operation progresses.
