The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the rescue of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who were abducted along the Owerri-Onitsha Expressway in Imo State.
The corps members were rescued on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Amakohia Ubi Village in Owerri West Local Government Area of the state, following a coordinated search-and-rescue operation involving the police and other security agencies.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday, saying the rescued victims had been taken for medical assessment and were receiving necessary care.
The statement said, “The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with sister security agencies, 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.”
The prospective corps members were reportedly travelling to their NYSC orientation camp when gunmen attacked their convoy along the Owerri-Onitsha route on October 1.
While confirming the rescue, the police said no suspect had yet been publicly identified, but efforts were ongoing to track down those responsible for the abduction.
“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 statement said.
The Force also commended members of the public for their cooperation and support, assuring Nigerians that security agencies would continue to work together to respond to threats and protect lives and property.
“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,” the statement added.
