Explosive Threat Delays Rescue of Abducted NYSC Members in Imo
The Imo State Police Command says a suspected kidnappers’ camp where prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members are being held has been located, but fears that the site is booby-trapped with improvised explosive devices (IEDs) have delayed an immediate rescue operation.
Commissioner of Police Audu Bosso said security operatives tracked the kidnappers into the bush and used drones to pinpoint their suspected location. He said authorities were preparing bulldozers and armoured personnel carriers to support the operation and minimise risks to both the hostages and security personnel.
The prospective corps members were travelling from Ibadan to orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom when gunmen attacked two buses along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Umunoha, Imo State, on Thursday. The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police Shehu Nadada and additional tactical personnel to coordinate the rescue effort.
There are conflicting accounts over the number of people still in captivity. Police initially reported that 10 victims had been rescued, while the Defence Headquarters later said 20 passengers were abducted and 10 people, including eight prospective corps members, were rescued. Families, however, say 20 prospective corps members remain captive and that kidnappers are demanding ₦50 million per victim. These figures have not yet been fully reconciled by authorities.
The reported ransom demand and the uncertainty over the number of people still being held have heightened anxiety among relatives, who are appealing for urgent intervention. Police say the priority remains securing the victims’ safe release while avoiding a direct assault that could expose them to the suspected explosives.
