BREAKING: Military, DSS, Police Rescue 20 Kidnapped Corps Members In Imo

Twenty prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and a civilian abducted in Imo State have been rescued following a coordinated operation by security agencies.

The victims were abducted while travelling through the state on October 1, 2026, prompting security agencies to launch search-and-rescue operations to locate them.

The rescued victims are receiving medical attention at a Department of State Services (DSS) facility in Owerri, according to security sources.

The NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, is also at the DSS clinic in Owerri, where he is addressing the rescued victims.

A security source said: “The NYSC-DG is in the company of the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Director DSS and Brigade Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze, Imo State.”

Reacting to the rescue, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, commended the security agencies for securing the release of the 20 prospective corps members abducted along the Onitsha-Owerri Road.

In a statement personally signed by him, Uzodimma also acknowledged the collaboration between the Oyo and Imo State governments in securing the release of the victims.

He commended the security agencies for what he described as their “sound collaboration and patriotism” in ensuring the corps members were rescued unharmed.

Uzodimma said “since the issue involved the security of lives, the government was cautious about releasing too much information to the public, hence the discreet manner in which it was handled”.

The governor added that he “is particularly grateful to the security agencies for the discreet and collaborative manner in which they tackled the challenge”, while also praising the parents for “their patience during the trying period”.

He urged Nigerians to have faith in the Federal Government as it tackles security challenges across the country.

Police confirm rescue

The Nigeria Police Force also confirmed the rescue, saying the 20 prospective corps members were freed after sustained search-and-rescue operations.

In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police said the victims had been taken for medical assessment and necessary care.

The statement read: “The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with sister security agencies, has rescued the 20 prospective NYSC corps members abducted in Imo State on 1st October 2026.

“The victims were rescued on 7th October 2026 at Amakohia Ubi Village, Imo State, following sustained search-and-rescue operations. They have since been taken for medical assessment and necessary care.

“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the abduction, as the Police and other security agencies sustain coordinated operations towards bringing all culpable persons to justice.

“The Nigeria Police Force appreciates members of the public for their cooperation and support and remains committed to the protection of lives and property, prompt response to security threats and continued collaboration with sister security agencies.”